Boeing has revealed its new Transonic Truss-Braced Wing (TTBW), which it says will fly higher and faster than the previous TTBW concepts.

Boeing’s new configuration is designed to offer unprecedented aerodynamic efficiency while flying at Mach 0.80.

From end-to-end, the folding wings measure 170 feet.

The high wingspan is made possible by the presence of a truss, which supports the extended length of the ultra-thin wing.

Originally, the TTBW was designed to fly at speeds of Mach 0.70 – 0.75. To increase the aircraft’s cruise speed, the new concept now has an optimised truss and a modified wing sweep. By adjusting the wing sweep angle, the truss can carry lift more efficiently.

SUGAR

The new changes follow extensive wind tunnel testing at NASA Ames Research Center. For nearly a decade, Boeing and NASA have been studying the concept as part of the Subsonic Ultra Green Aircraft Research (SUGAR) programme.

The research focuses on innovative concepts that reduce noise and emissions while enhancing performance.

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