Airbus unveiled a new narrowbody aircraft design that could enter into service in the second half of the 2030s. The next-generation single-aisle aircraft is reportedly aimed to replace the best-selling A320neo family.
The European manufacturer highlighted that the new aircraft would be 20-30% more efficient than the current models. Moreover, it will have the capability to fly with up to 100% sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).
Airbus is planning to use advanced material for the new aircraft. The manufacturer showcased a number of configurations being studied for this aircraft.
“Now we are taking the best of what we’ve done and preparing another jump to make our single-aisle aircraft even better and pioneer the future of flight, when the time is right,” said Airbus Head of Future Programmes Bruno Fichefeux.
Key Technologies Behind
During the 2025 Airbus Summit, Airbus stated that the new aircraft’s design will completely change how aircraft are manufactured and operated. One of the key highlights includes a folding wing mechanism that improves flight efficiency while maintaining airport gate compatibility.
Technologies include more efficient engines, including disruptive open fan designs and long foldable wings allowing for significant aerodynamic gains. Moreover, these aircraft will have next-generation batteries to enable hybrid architectures where electricity is increasingly used to support propulsive and non-propulsive functions aboard the aircraft’ and lightweight materials and integrated systems for a connected aircraft.
Advanced Engines
Airbus’ Head of R&T Karim Mokaddem stated that multiple teams are working continuously to finalise the choices of the aircraft’s engine type, wing design and additional innovations once their maturity is demonstrated.
The manufacturer aims to reduce fuel consumption and carbon emissions with the next-generation engine. In collaboration with CFM, the Revolutionary Innovation for Sustainable Engines (RISE) project aims for an open fan engine design that could reduce fuel consumption by 20%.
Moreover, the EcoPulse demonstrator project aims to explore the applications of the lithium-ion batteries. These projects could result in new advanced technologies that would be ground-breaking for the whole industry.
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