The maiden flight of the Flying-V was a success, according to researchers. The unique design of the Flying-V, with the passenger cabin, cargo hold and fuel tanks in the wings, creates an aerodynamic shape which experts hope will cut fuel consumption by 20 percent compared to standard airplanes. The Flying-V looks to birds, which conserve energy while flying in a V formation.

Photo 186964048 © Jonnah Ssenabulya | Dreamstime.com

A 22.5 kg and 3-meter scale model of the futuristic and fuel-efficient airplane was tested for takeoffs, maneuvers, approaches and landings at an airbase in Germany. The model plane was developed at Delft University of Technology in the Netherlands and partner Dutch airline KLM. The data collected will be programmed into a flight simulator for future testing.

The main concern was possible difficulty in lift-offs, with “rotation” being the big issue. Using remote controls, researchers were able to make the plane take off at low speeds while noting results and adjusting the plane’s center of gravity and antenna.

The proposed dimensions of the Flying-V are 180 feet in length and 55 feet high, with a wing span of 215 feet. It is planned to hold 314 passengers. The current plan is to put two A350-type engines on the Flying V, but other energy sources are being tested.

There is still a lot of work to be done before the Flying-V is ready to take to the skies with passengers, but developers are even more confident after the successful test flights. The next test flights are planned for 2021.

— John Wroblewski, online writer