Rating aircraft on energy

Journal Article · Sun Dec 01 04:00:00 EST 1974 · Astronaut. Aeronaut.; (United States)

OSTI ID:7343728

Maddalon, D V

Questions concerning the energy efficiency of aircraft compared to ground transport are considered, taking into account as energy intensity the energy consumed per passenger statute mile. It is found that today's transport aircraft have an energy intensity potential comparable to that of ground modes. Possibilities for improving the energy density are also much better in the case of aircraft than in the case of ground transportation. Approaches for potential reductions in aircraft energy consumption are examined, giving attention to steps for increasing the efficiency of present aircraft and to reductions in energy intensity obtainable by the introduction of new aircraft utilizing an advanced technology. The use of supercritical aerodynamics is discussed along with the employment of composite structures, advances in propulsion systems, and the introduction of very large aircraft. Other improvements in fuel economy can be obtained by a reduction of skin-friction drag and a use of hydrogen fuel.

• Research Organization: Langley Research Center, Hampton, VA
• OSTI ID: 7343728
• Journal Information: Astronaut. Aeronaut.; (United States), Journal Name: Astronaut. Aeronaut.; (United States) Vol. 12; ISSN ASAEA
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

32 ENERGY CONSERVATION, CONSUMPTION, AND UTILIZATION
320201 -- Energy Conservation
Consumption
& Utilization-- Transportation-- Air & Aerospace
33 ADVANCED PROPULSION SYSTEMS
330600* -- Advanced Propulsion Systems-- Vehicle Design Factors
AERODYNAMICS
AIRCRAFT
COMPARATIVE EVALUATIONS
DESIGN
DRAG
ENERGY CONSUMPTION
FLUID MECHANICS
FUEL ECONOMY
FUELS
HYDROGEN FUELS
MECHANICS
SYNTHETIC FUELS
VEHICLES