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Airbus tests Blended Winglet technology on the A320

Airbus has begun flight-testing of Blended Winglet devices on the Airbus A320. The new Blended Winglet technology, which was developed by Aviation Partners Inc. (API), is specially engineered for the A320 Family for these tests.

The flight tests aim to identify the performance and the economic benefits these devices offer for the Airbus aircraft. With the help of follow-up analyses, engineers will provide data on overall viability to help determine if the design can be integrated into the Airbus programme.

The whole project is part of a wider program that aims to extend the company’s market-leading eco-efficient credentials. The new research track builds on previously performed tests of two different winglet designs by Airbus, which took place two years ago.

“We continue to work on further improving the eco-efficiency of all our aircraft,” said Patrick Gavin, executive VP of engineering for Airbus. “These early evaluation tests are a milestone that need to be achieved long before implementation. The A320 Family is the most efficient in its class, and we continuously study potential improvements to keep it unmatched for the years to come.”

The latest flight test will be conducted using the A320—the same plane that was used in previous Blended Winglet tests. Airbus continues to evaluate wing-tip designs to further innovate designs to reduce structural load.