All articles tagged with #x plane
A retired SR-71 Blackbird has disappeared from public display at NASA’s Armstrong Flight Research Center, fueling speculation about a return-to-flight program or a new hypersonic testbed. NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman recently hinted at rebuilding the X-plane fleet to fly 'higher and faster,' while the agency declined to confirm the aircraft's current status.
NASA and Boeing have unveiled the X-66A, the latest experimental X-plane designed to help the US achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions in aviation. The X-66A is the first X-plane designed specifically for this purpose and could inform a new generation of sustainable single-aisle aircraft. The X-plane status recognizes the design's Transonic Truss-Braced Wing configuration that, in combination with advancements in propulsion systems and materials, could lead to a reduction of 30% in fuel consumption and fewer emissions in comparison to current "best-in-class" aircraft. NASA has a Funded Space Act Agreement with Boeing for the Sustainable Flight Demonstrator, which will see the space agency make an investment of $425 million over seven years.