/reeve.gif)
/
https://boeing.mediaroom.com/news-relea ... tem=131385
/
https://www.nasa.gov/directorates/armd/iasp/sfd/
/
https://aviationweek.com/aerospace/emer ... 6a-program
A former Delta Air Lines MD-90 begins its transformation into the NASA X-66A at Boeing's Palmdale facility.
PALMDALE, Calif., Jan. 8, 2024 – Boeing [NYSE:BA] has begun extensive modification of an airplane that will become the X-66 Sustainable Flight Demonstrator (SFD), removing engines and completing 3D metrology scans to inform the plane’s design and build plan.
The MD-90 jet’s original wings will soon be removed to test the Transonic Truss-Braced Wing (TTBW) design with new ultrathin wings braced by struts with larger spans and higher-aspect ratios. TTBW’s wider wing span and aerodynamic efficiency could significantly accelerate opportunities to reduce fuel use and emissions.
Boeing Begins X-66 Modification, Removing Engines and Adding Scanning Technology
Play File
Boeing Begins X-66 Modification, Removing Engines and Adding Scanning Technology
The X-66 is NASA's first experimental plane project focused on helping the U.S. achieve its goal of net-zero aviation greenhouse gas emissions. Ground and flight testing is expected to begin in 2028.
Boeing released a time-lapse video of recent steps in the conversion including:
Removal of the engines and thrust reversers
Jacking and shoring of the jet to simulate the condition of the airplane during full modification
3D laser scanning of the airplane structure
