RTX Selected by Boeing for X-66A NASA Sustainable Flight Demonstrator Project

RTX, a leading aerospace and defense company, has been chosen by Boeing to collaborate on the X-66A flight demonstrator as part of NASA’s Sustainable Flight Demonstrator project. This partnership will see two RTX business units, Pratt & Whitney and Collins Aerospace, providing support to Boeing with Pratt & Whitney GTF™ engines, Collins nacelles, and engine accessories.

The X-66A program, led by Boeing, aims to develop the Transonic Truss-Braced Wing (TTBW) concept, which has the potential to significantly improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions for next-generation single-aisle aircraft. As part of the Sustainable Flight Demonstrator program, RTX will work closely with Boeing to apply GTF engines to the X-66A and showcase the innovative truss-braced wing design.

Geoff Hunt, Senior Vice President of Engineering & Technology at Pratt & Whitney, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating, “NASA’s Sustainable Flight Demonstrator is a leading example of how public-private partnerships can help foster the technological breakthroughs needed to deliver on the industry-wide goal of a more sustainable, net-zero emissions future.”

The Pratt & Whitney GTF engine, known for its revolutionary geared fan architecture, offers industry-leading fuel efficiency and sustainability benefits for single-aisle aircraft. Since its introduction in 2016, GTF engines have helped airlines save over 1.4 billion gallons of fuel and reduce CO2 emissions by more than 14 million metric tons. These engines are also certified to operate with sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and provide a significant reduction in aircraft noise footprint compared to previous generation engines.

Collins Aerospace, another RTX business unit, will contribute its expertise in nacelles and engine accessories. Collins’ nacelles, made of lightweight and durable composite and metallic materials, play a crucial role in safeguarding the engine, controlling airflow, reducing noise, and facilitating thrust reversal during aircraft landings. Additionally, Collins supplies control system components for the GTF engine, including heat exchangers, integrated fuel pump and control, air turbine starter, and electronic controls.

Dr. Mauro Atalla, Senior Vice President of Engineering & Technology for Collins, highlighted the company’s commitment to reducing the environmental footprint of the aviation industry. He stated, “Now, as part of the Sustainable Flight Demonstrator program, we will work together to demonstrate new technologies and systems to support the next generation of low-emission single-aisle aircraft.”

Boeing’s Chief Technology Officer, Dr. Todd Citron, expressed gratitude for RTX’s support, emphasizing the importance of the Sustainable Flight Demonstrator, X-66, and the partnership with NASA in the industry’s efforts to decarbonize aviation.

RTX is actively advancing various technologies to support the future of sustainable aviation, including engine readiness for unblended 100% SAF, hybrid-electric propulsion, and hydrogen fuel. In addition to the X-66A project, Pratt & Whitney and Collins are collaborating with NASA on other Sustainable Flight National Partnership initiatives, such as Hybrid Thermally Efficient Core (HyTEC) and Hi-Rate Composite Aircraft Manufacturing (HiCAM).

RTX’s selection by Boeing for the X-66A NASA Sustainable Flight Demonstrator project further solidifies its position as a key player in the aerospace industry’s pursuit of sustainable and environmentally friendly aviation solutions. Through collaborations and technological advancements, RTX continues to contribute to a more sustainable future for commercial aviation.