X-48B
The X-48B is an experimental aircraft currently under development by Boeing and NASA that has a blended wing body construction. The blended wing body jet is more fuel efficient because it has a better lift-to-drag ratio.1
Fast Facts
- 8.5% scale model prototype constructed1
- First flight: July 20, 20071
- Estimated cruising altitude: 10,000 feet1
- Full-sized jet will have an 800-person capacity2
- 30% more fuel efficient compared to similarly sized aircrafts1
Construction and Test Flights
A 21-foot prototype, 8.5% scale model was constructed. The model has three turbojet engines and a blended wing body. During test flights, the model was able to fly at 138 miles per hour and at altitudes of 10,000 feet.1
Future
In the future, the aircraft may be used by the military for bombing and transportation. It may also be developed into an 800-person capacity commercial jet.2
Categories
