Airbus has unveiled an innovative Bird of Prey conceptual aircraft design to inspire future aeronautical engineers, emphasizing the impact they can create by utilizing the company’s research in hybrid-electric propulsion, active control systems, and advanced composite structures.
Revealed at this week’s Royal International Air Tattoo air show in the UK, the theoretical design is a hybrid-electric, turbo-propeller aircraft for regional air transportation.
Airbus says it is inspired by the efficient mechanics of a bird, featuring wing and tail structures that mimic those of a bird of prey, while incorporating individually controlled feathers that provide active flight control.
Martin Aston, Senior Manager at Airbus, stated that the concept aims to inspire young people and create a 'wow' factor that encourages them to consider an exciting career in the critically important aerospace sector. "One of the priorities for the entire industry is how to make aviation more sustainable – making flying cleaner, greener, and quieter than ever before. We know from our work on the A350 XWB passenger jet that through biomimicry, nature has some of the best lessons we can learn about design. Who can't help but be inspired by such a creation?"
The Bird of Prey concept was unveiled at the Royal International Air Tattoo event to showcase the UK’s aerospace industry leadership and to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Airbus as an aircraft manufacturer. The conceptual design initiative is supported by the GREAT Britain campaign, the Royal Aeronautical Society, the Air League, the Institution of Engineering and Technology, and Aerospace Technology Institute.
