Boeing is testing three dozen technologies on their ecoDemonstrator program starting this month with a 777-200ER testbed aircraft. Projects are designed to improve cabin recyclability and operational efficiency, including single-engine taxi and digital taxi tests.
On Thursday (May 16, 2024), Boeing announced their 2024 ecoDemonstrator tests which will begin this month with a Boeing 777-200ER. Tests will focus on technologies to improve operational efficiency and sustainability in aircraft cabin interiors, one of the most challenging parts of recycling an airplane. In the area of airport operations, single-engine and digital clearance tests will be conducted to reduce fuel use, while enhancing safety by reducing pilot workload. Additionally, in an effort to reduce noise, Boeing will quantify flight operation procedures such as a steeper glide slope and continuous descent approach.
In Thursday’s announcement, Boeing Commercial Airplanes’ President and CEO, Stephanie Pope, said,
“The Boeing ecoDemonstrator program helps us make tangible improvements to our products – allowing us to reduce the environmental impacts of flying, improve the in-flight experience and strengthen the safety of our airplanes. We’re grateful for the many partnerships within aviation and beyond who help us turn the seemingly impossible into reality.”
Also commenting on the 2024 ecoDemonstrator initiatives, Boeing’s Chief Sustainability Officer, Brian Moran, said,
“The ecoDemonstrator program is among our most iconic flight demonstrators, having tested 250 technologies since it first took flight in 2012. This year's testing of various cabin interiors aims to help solve for the portion of our airplanes that is not reusable or recyclable while also reducing fuel use and crew workload.”
As previously mentioned, testing will also focus on improving the recyclability of aircraft cabins, with the use of lighter, recyclable and more durable floor coverings, and recycled carbon fiber ceiling panels, both made with 25 percent bio-based resin. In the effort to reduce noise and regulate humidity and temperature, new insulation will be tested, along with fabric-covered acoustic panels for the bulkhead and galley. Additionally, Boeing will be testing future cabin concepts, such as Business Class and Economy Class seat sensors that detect if someone is seated during taxi, takeoff and landing. Other tests will include a touchless water conservation lavatory, and galley technologies to improve efficiencies and reduce food waste.
Boeing will showcase four of the cabin interior technologies at the 2024 Aircraft Interiors Expo in Hamburg, Germany, which will be held from May 22nd through 24th. Since launching in 2012, almost every Boeing ecoDemonstrator testbed aircraft has been powered with SAF, and this year, the 777-200ER will fly on a 30/70 blend of SAF and conventional jet fuel.
Source: Boeing