GE Aviation to Collaborate with Boeing on Hybrid Electric Flight Test Demo Program

GE Aviation chose Boeing, which uses a modified Saab 340B aircraft and CT7-9B turboprop engine to support flight tests of the hybrid electric propulsion system.

Boeing and its subsidiary Aurora Flight Sciences will provide aircraft modification, systems integration and flight testing services to GE Aviation. This work includes nacelle manufacturing, cockpit interface design and software, aircraft-level performance analysis and systems integration. NASA and GE Aviation have previously matured the megawatt (MW) class hybrid electric propulsion system for single-aisle aircraft to demonstrate flight readiness. announced the launch of a new research collaboration to bring Ground and flight tests are planned for the mid-2020s. The program is part of NASA's Electric Driveline Flight Test (EPFD) project; It's the product of a $260 million effort that includes five years of investment from NASA, GE Aviation, Boeing and other partners. Mohamed Ali, GE Aviation Vice President and General Manager of Engineering, said:

“We are excited to have the opportunity to partner with Boeing to develop hybrid electric and electric propulsion systems. NASA's Electric Driveline Flight Test project is an opportunity for GE Aviation and Boeing, world leaders in aerospace technologies, to demonstrate that hybrid electric propulsion systems are real and possible to reduce carbon emissions in the future of commercial aviation.” Boeing Chief Technology Officer, Boeing Naveed Hussain, Vice President and General Manager of Research & Technology, said: “We are inspired to move forward with GE Aviation to demonstrate the viability of hybrid-electric propulsion technology. We are pleased to contribute to the extensive research and testing of hybrid electric propulsion systems, including our long-term development partnership with NASA. This project will undoubtedly be an important milestone on the road to more sustainable air transportation.” Aircraft systems engineering and testing will take place at Aurora's headquarters in Manassas, Virginia, and nacelle production at its facilities in Mississippi and West Virginia.

Per Beith, President and CEO of Aurora Flight Sciences, said: “We are proud to contribute to this important project with Aurora's engineering and testing experience in aircraft components and systems. Working with GE Aviation, we will make a significant impact in the development of electric propulsion systems for commercial air freight.” GE Aviation has been developing hybrid electric system components, including engines, generators, and power converters, for more than a decade. Hybrid electric technologies developed by GE Aviation are highly compatible with Sustainable Aviation Fuel and hydrogen, as well as advanced engine architectures such as open fan and new compact engine core designs. can help it achieve its goal of “net-zero CO2050 emissions in flight”.