NASA and Boeing’s New X-66A: A Game-Changer for Sustainable Aviation or Just PR?

NASA and Boeing unveiled the new X-66A livery at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh. (Image: Boeing)

Most experts say the New X-66A is not just a PR stunt, but a serious attempt to advance the state of the art in aviation and address the challenge of climate change, or is it?

NASA and Boeing have announced the designation of their next-generation experimental aircraft as the X-66A by the U.S. Air Force. The X-66A is the first X-plane specifically aimed at helping the United States achieve the goal of net-zero aviation greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

The X-66A will test the Transonic Truss-Braced Wing (TTBW) concept, which features extra-long, thin wings stabilized by diagonal struts. The design promises to reduce fuel consumption and emissions up to 30% relative to today’s single-aisle aircraft, which are the workhorse of passenger airlines around the world.

To build the X-66A, Boeing will work with NASA to modify an MD-90 aircraft, shortening the fuselage and replacing its wings and engines. The resulting demonstrator aircraft will have a wingspan of 145 feet, which may benefit from folding wing tips to accommodate existing airport infrastructure.

NASA and Boeing will collaborate with U.S. airlines to advise the Sustainable Flight Demonstrator (SFD) project and provide feedback on operational efficiencies, maintenance, handling characteristics and airport compatibility. Airline pilots will also have a chance to experience the X-66A through a flight simulator and assess its performance.

The X-66A is expected to fly in 2026 and begin flight testing out of NASA’s Armstrong Flight Research Center at Edwards Air Force Base. The project is part of NASA’s world-leading efforts in aeronautics and climate, as well as Boeing’s commitment to innovating for the future and leading with sustainability.

The X-66A is not only a revolutionary experimental aircraft, but also a potential game-changer for the aviation industry and the environment. As NASA Administrator Bill Nelson said, “The X-66A will help shape the future of aviation, a new era where aircraft are greener, cleaner, and quieter, and create new possibilities for the flying public and American industry alike.”

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, msn.com, boeing.com, nasa.gov