Eco-airliner not possible without next step in digitalization

The research and development of a new generation of ecofriendly airliners not only require new technological steps on airframe design and aerodynamics, engines, and fuels, but foremost needs a big step in digitalization. Right now, the level of digitalization and computerization isn’t high enough to fully understand how various technical solutions interact with each other and can influence a design. This is one of the challenges highlighted in a recent study from the German Aerospace Center DLR. Eco-airliner not possible without next step in digitalization.

DLR or Deutsches Zentrum für Luft- und Raumfahrt recently published a strategy report called “On the way to emission-free”. The report describes the technological steps and other challenges that are to be overcome when developing the technology for commercial aircraft in 2050 that will have the lowest carbon emissions possible.

While at first sight, the report seems very similar to other studies like those from Clean Sky (now Clean Aviation) or Destination 2050

that was prepared last year by a group of European stakeholders, like ACI Europe and Airlines 4 Europe (A4E), it mostly identifies some of the challenges to meet the 2050 target. DLR identifies four main themes that need to be further researched and developed: emission-free propulsion, energy-efficient aircraft, emission-free air transport, and digitalization. Only a combination of these themes will allow the industry to become climate-neutral in 2050, DLR says.