Fly Silent, Fly Cheap

Fly Silent, Fly Cheap is an article written by Jeffry Winters about a collaboration that the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and the University of Cambridge decided on involving aircraft noise levels and the possible advancements in aviation.  Aircraft noise has been a limiting factor to the growth of aviation since the beginning.  The two colleges decided to look more into the shape of aircraft to reduce the amount of noise it gives off.  After three years, the engineers and researchers revealed a design for a futuristic-looking aircraft code-named SAX-40.  The design for the SAX-40 has a wide-flattened fuselage to provide lift and reduce the amount of airspeed also reducing the power produced by engines while minimizing noise.  It also has a customary tail and the lateral stability was processed through the small winglets at each wing resulting in less structure exposure.  The aftermath of the design changes would  allow aircraft to be a neutral part of urban environment rather than a nuisance.  With all the research accomplished the engineers also came to realization that they were not only reducing noise, they were also saving fuel.  A regular 777 Boeing aircraft receives 100 passenger MPG, while the SAX-40 receives 120 passanger MPG, making this silent aircraft an airborne Prius.

This article really caught my attention because it gives an example of what technology will bring to us and the futuristic look makes me realize that the "future" is right around the corner.  I also recognize how much of an issue noise can be when it comes to airports in urban areas, so the fact that there would be a great reduction to noise means that the growth of aviation won't be effected.  We are constantly looking for new ways to save the planet and another important part of technology is "going green."  The fact that this aircraft saves fuel and is nick-named the "airborne Prius" is great and will most likely get positive reactions from society.  Although this aircraft sounds and looks great, don't go booking your ticket yet.  There are still many questions that still need to be answered, but it does give Boeing and Airbus something to consider! 

Winters, J. (2007). Fly silent, fly cheap. Mechanical Engineering, 129(2), 40-41. Retrieved from http://proxy.consortiumlibrary.org/docview/230167561?accountid=14473