TsAGI to develop advanced low-noise aircraft

Last April, scientists of the Central AeroHydrodynamic Institute named after professor N.E. Zhukovsky (TsAGI, part of the Scientific Research Center "Institute named after professor N.E. Zhukovsky") completed the second stage of research for an advanced concept low-noise, short-haul aircraft. The aircraft features slightly swept wing to allow for laminar flow maintainability without irregular spikes of velocity and pressure at the surface. This would considerably reduce aircraft drag.

Another feature of the aircraft concept are the engines located above the wing trailing edge. This solution contributes to reduced noise pressure when passing through areas adjacent to airfields, as well as allow for installation of energy-efficient engines with an enlarged diameter. With the said aircraft configuration the risk of foreign objects being ingested into air inlets would be greatly mitigated.

Back in 2015 the first ever concept of the advanced aircraft was tested by Institute experts. The test results have shown the way to improve the aircraft configuration. TsAGI scientists have established a new procedure of aerodynamic designing to meet specific trade-off requirements for the laminar wings. Multiple analyses eventually resulted in the enhanced airfoil geometry of the new wings.

Transonic wind tunnel tests have reconfirmed the design estimates. Compared to earlier solutions, the wing/drag ratio is now increased while retaining nearly the same velocity parameters (Mach number 0.78). Also considerably increased is the wing lifting power.

TsAGI scientists will revise structural and sonic capabilities of the aircraft concept to substantiate the configuration solution.