Airbus Decloaks 'Bird of Prey'; Concept Plane Airbus has unveiled a conceptual airliner that takes cues from our fine-feathered friends. The design of this Ave is to motivate a new generation of aeronautical engineers, showing how they can make the next leap forward by applying technologies developed by the company in hybrid-electric propulsion, active control systems and advanced composite structures. Inspired by the efficient mechanics of a bird, it has wing and tail structures that mimic a bird, featuring individually controlled feathers that provide active flight control. This futuristic falcon was revealed at the 2019 Royal International Air Tattoo show in the UK.
While not intended to represent an actual aircraft, the Bird of Prey is based on real ideas, providing insight into what a future regional aircraft could look like. It includes a blended wing-to-fuselage joint that mirrors the graceful and aerodynamic arch of an eagle or falcon, representing the potential of biomimicry (the design and production of materials, structures and systems inspired by nature). “Our ‘Bird of Prey’ is designed to be an inspiration to young people and create a ‘wow’ factor that will help them consider an exciting career in the crucially-important aerospace sector,” explained Martin Aston, a senior manager at Airbus. “One of the priorities for the entire industry is how to make aviation more sustainable – making flying cleaner, greener and quieter than ever before. We know from our work on the A350 XWB passenger jet that through biomimicry, nature has some of the best lessons we can learn about design. Who can’t help but be inspired by such a creation?” For more information: Airbus S.A.S. Worldwide Headquarters 1, Rond point Maurice Bellonte Blagnac Cedex 31707 France www.airbus.com ***
