Russia completes second stage of wind tunnel tests on a model of an advanced flying wing commercial airliner

(TsAGI)

Russia’s Central Aerohydrodynamic Institute (TsAGI) has completed yet another phase of wind-tunnel tests on a scale model of an advanced flying-wing aircraft model, considered one of the most promising configurations of a subsonic commercial airliner. Tests were conducted in TsAGI’s T-128 wind tunnel at Zhukovsky near Moscow, and centered on the model’s integral aerodynamic performance during the cruise, including tests with removed nacelles to identify the aerodynamic interference values. The tests confirmed a significant reduction in interference drag. The next phase will be aimed at specifying the results of weight tests in different wind tunnels and researching the flow physics through visualization.

The three-year research programme is contracted by Russia’s Ministry for industry and trade. Earlier stages included design and wind tunnel testing of a flying wing topic model in different configurations of engine location and tail assembly geometry. The experiments demonstrated unfavorable interference generated by locating engines above the wing, the configuration, which is best for reducing ground noise levels. Further research into eliminating interference from nacelles, pylons and wing was conducted after that, which, following another research cycle led to development of a new model.

The perspective flying-wing aircraft would offer passenger seating on two decks, whilst improving aerodynamic properties, weight and fuel efficiency compared to existing models. TsAGI has been researching this configuration for several years, the institute said in a statement.