Sizing implications of a regional aircraft for inner-city operations

Abstract

Purpose-The paper aims to assess the potential of aircraft operation from city centres to achieve shortened travel times and the involved aircraft design process. Design/methodology/approach-The paper describes the methodical approach and iterative procedure of the design process. An assessment of potential technologies is conducted to provide the required enhancements to fulfil the constraints following an inner-city operation. Operational procedures were analysed to reduce the noise propagation through flight path optimization. Furthermore a ground based assisted takeoff system was conceived to lower required takeoff field length and to prevent engine sizing just for the takeoff case. Cabin design optimization for a fast turnaround has been conducted to ensure a wide utilization spectrum. The results prove the feasibility of an aircraft developed for inner-city operation. Findings-A detailed concept for a 60 passenger single aisle aircraft is proposed for an Entry-Into-Service year 2040 with a design range of 1,500 nautical miles for a load factor of 90 %. Although the design for STOL and low noise operation had to be traded partly with cruise efficiency, a noteworthy reduction in fuel burn per passenger and nautical mile was achieved against current aircraft. Practical implications-The findings will contribute to the evaluation of the feasibility and impact of the Flightpath 2050 goal of a four hour door-to-door by providing a feasible but ambitious example. Furthermore, it highlights possible bottlenecks and problems faced, when realizing this goal. Originality/value-The paper draws its value from the consideration of the overall sizing effects at aircraft level and from a holistic view on an inner-city airport/aircraft concept.

Conceptual Design of Operation Strategies for Hybrid Electric Aircraft

“…focuses on a broad spectrum of alternatives to conventional propulsion technologies and sources of energy for aircraft. In their investigation of regional [4] and short to long distance aircraft such as the CeLiner [5][6][7] propulsion technologies suitable for FEA and HEA concepts are discussed and electric air transport appears to offer a promising perspective [6]. Encouraged by a retrofit of an A320, block fuel can be significantly reduced (by 16%) considering a hybrid propulsion concept including a battery [8] Although these researchers differentiate between the power and the energy delivered by the electrical system, a propulsion operation strategy is missing.…”