The uttermost challenge for HERWINGT is to deliver a pioneering wing design for the future hybrid-electric regional aircraft (HER) that will contribute to the overall target to reduce fuel burn by at least 50% at the aircraft level. For this purpose, the novel wing targets a fuel reduction, at an integrated wing level, of at least 15%, and a reduction of the structure weight, at a full wing level, of at least 15% meeting the expectations of the wing integration with brand-new hybrid-electric propulsion. Undoubtedly, this is well beyond the state-of-the-art compared to the existing wings, already operating in the market, as well as beyond many of the research demonstrators planned in the European Commission (EC) and abroad. Our goal will be achieved by launching the following game-changers:
Increased wing aspect ratio, compared to state-of-the-art wing structures, is the cornerstone of our strategy aiming for fuel burn reduction and challenging aerodynamic performance. Initial estimations foresee a significant reduction in drag due to the increased aspect ratio in the climb and cruise phases.
Through a trade-off study will be determined the most weight-efficient configuration of the high aspect ratio considering the stiffness requirements.
Wing novel architectural layout will be developed to complement both, the hybrid-electric propulsion system and the sub-system, to reduce internal loads and aerodynamic drag compared to a conventional wing configuration. Wing span size will be tailored according to the airport requirements for ground traffic handling.