Electra Aero recently unveiled a new conceptual aircraft design for next-generation airliners that was developed as part of NASA’s Advanced Aircraft Concepts for Environmental Sustainability (AACES) 2050 program. The program also included entries from Boeing, Georgia Institute of Technology, Jet Zero, and Pratt & Whitney.
Electra’s study explores how targeted electrification, advanced aerodynamics, and integrated airframe-propulsion design can transform the efficiency and competitiveness of aircraft with 100+ passengers by mid-century.
Although the hybrid-electric-powered design still uses hydrocarbon-based fuels, it’s intended to serve as a practical interim step. It ultimately helps accelerate the transition to electric propulsion and delivers improved efficiency while retaining compatibility with existing real-world airline operations and airport infrastructures.
The concept vehicle is designed to fit within existing airport gates and airline operations, use standard jet fuel or sustainable aviation fuel, and avoid reliance on airport charging infrastructure or untested fuel types. The configuration also supports a twin-aisle cabin layout within a narrowbody aircraft class, unlocking improved passenger comfort and more efficient boarding and deplaning.
Its wide “double-bubble” fuselage allows the body of the aircraft to contribute more lift. Meanwhile, two underwing turbofan engines produce thrust as well as electricity to power electric tail fans that ingest and re-energize slower-moving air over the fuselage, a technique known as boundary layer ingestion.
The hybrid-electric propulsion system uses many of the lessons learned in the development of Electra’s nine-passenger EL9, an ultra-short takeoff and landing commuter airliner, expected to begin flight testing in 2027. The system, which includes a multi-megawatt integrated generator and kilovolt-class power distribution, is intended to bring these capabilities to maturity by 2035 and position industry to carry them into service by 2050.
Electra’s analysis found that the configuration could deliver up to a 17% efficiency improvement beyond gains expected by 2050 from advanced structures, engine technologies, and aerodynamic improvements. Click here to read Electra’s full release.
Additional information about the other entries can be found here on NASA’s website.
