Aircraft
Airbus 'BLADE Runner' Exceeds Expectations
Applying the technology to a future generation is more feasible than previously thought, Airbus has suggested.
BLADE wing extensions on this A340 aid laminar flow research at Airbus.
BLADE wing extensions on this A340 aid laminar flow research at Airbus.

Airbus's (Outdoor exhibit 13, 25, K*/Hall 1, Stand 1105) flight-testing of a converted A340 quadjet confirms that "the door is wide open" to apply laminar-flow technology to future airliners, says research and technology senior vice president Axel Flaig. Ten months ago, the manufacturer embarked on a two-year project dubbed Breakthrough Laminar Aircraft Demonstrator in Europe (BLADE).