Newly unveiled: CityAirbus NextGen, the latest addition to air travel innovations.
The CityAirbus NextGen, a two-tonne class aircraft developed by Airbus Helicopters, is set to revolutionise urban air mobility. This electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft is designed for low-altitude missions in urban environments, marking a significant step forward in the Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) industry.
Airbus' partnership with LCI, a leading aviation company, is one of several steps taken to advance the development of AAM. This collaboration aims to focus on the development of partnership scenarios and business models in three core AAM areas: strategy, commercialisation, and financing.
The partnership is part of Airbus' efforts to expand its global network and create a unique ecosystem for a successful and viable AAM market. The CityAirbus NextGen test centre, located in Donauwörth, has already begun operations, with the CityAirbus NextGen powering on in December 2023.
The CityAirbus NextGen boasts a wing span of approximately 12 meters and a cruise speed of 120 km/h. Its advanced propulsion includes Rolls-Royce Trent 700 engines in some configurations, showcasing its hybrid nature. The aircraft's wings and structural components benefit from composite materials development, thanks to partnerships with companies like Spirit AeroSystems, known for their expertise in producing lightweight, durable aero wings.
Airbus has also collaborated with other aerospace players like GKN Aerospace Services Limited and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries in related aerospace manufacturing projects, which may support components and technologies for CityAirbus NextGen.
The CityAirbus NextGen has already recorded first lift-offs during flight tests, indicating an active flight testing program. While exact details about the test centre are limited, it is clear that Airbus continues to push development to pioneer urban air mobility solutions.
The collaboration between Airbus and LCI is a testament to Airbus' ongoing commitment to Advanced Air Mobility and the CityAirbus NextGen project. This partnership is expected to contribute to the development of the AAM industry, with a focus on fostering the growth of the market through a comprehensive approach to strategy, commercialisation, and financing.
With LCI's significant presence in the aviation industry, the collaboration holds great potential for success. The exchange of expertise and resources between the two companies promises to accelerate the development and deployment of the CityAirbus NextGen, paving the way for a future of efficient and sustainable urban air mobility.
The collaboration between Airbus and LCI, a leading aviation company, is expected to focus on the development of partnership scenarios and business models in the Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) industry, with a specific focus on strategy, commercialisation, and financing. This partnership marks a significant step towards the development of the AAM industry, as both companies aim to foster the growth of the market and contribute to the success of Airbus' project, the CityAirbus NextGen.
