Following the blueprint from centuries-old Leonardo Da Vinci’s work on the flight of birds, the fello’fly project from 2019 represented Airbus’s second bird research initiative which focused on analyzing geese energy conservation methods during V formation flight. The research produced a “wake energy retrieval” method that enables aircraft to determine the constant defense location in the vortex behind a leading aircraft. The research produced identical fuel conservation outcomes of 5% to 10% per flight. Let’s dive into the details of this newly proposed fuel-efficient flying method.
The Advent of the Aviation Industry
At the beginning of the fifteenth century, Italian Renaissance master Leonardo da Vinci was very interested in bird flight. He observed the movements of birds day and night, drawing pictures of their ways of maintaining balance and soaring. His dream was to build a flying machine from his scientific research. But what he created was the Codex on the Flight of Birds, a groundbreaking work that laid the foundation for what would later become biomimicry the study of nature to find efficient designs. Centuries later Otto Laylanthl, Igo Ethrich, and the Right Brothers designed their airplanes by copying birds, and thus the foundation of the aviation industry was founded.
How Nature is Inspiring the Future of Aviation
Have you ever seen a flock of geese flying in a full V-shape? It turns out, they’re not just doing it for fun – this strategic flying pattern helps them save energy and travel long distances efficiently. Now imagine if the aircraft adopt the same principle! Scientists and aviation experts are researching this natural trend to create flight formations that can revolutionize the aviation sector to save fuel. Can it change air travel? Let’s explore.
The Science Behind Goose Formation Flying
Geese and other migratory birds fly in the form of V to reduce air resistance. When the leader birds the wings, it produces an upward flow in the air for the back birds, which gives these birds lifting. Each bird flying in this setting takes advantage of low resistance, which can allow it to fly long distances using less energy. Research has shown that birds flying in this manner can save up to 20 to 30 percent of their energy.
How Aircraft Could Mimic Geese
Airlines and aerospace engineers are researching the possibility of forming flights for commercial aircraft. By flying in close coordination, similar to geese, airplanes could experience reduced air resistance and fuel consumption. The idea is that one aircraft would take the lead, creating aerodynamic lift that benefits trailing aircraft, improving efficiency.
Real-World Research on Formation Flying
One of the most notable projects in this field is Airbus’ fellow fly initiative. This project tests the feasibility of commercial aircraft flying in formation to save fuel and reduce emissions. Initial tests have shown fuel savings of around 5-10%, which could lead to significant cost reductions for airlines.
Potential Benefits for the Aviation Industry
Adopting bird-like formation flying in aviation could bring several advantages:
- Fuel Efficiency: Reduced drag means less fuel is needed, lowering operational costs for airlines.
- Lower Carbon Emissions: With more efficient flights, aircraft could contribute to greener air travel.
- Extended Flight Range: Planes could travel longer distances without needing extra fuel.
Challenges and Technological Barriers
While the idea is promising, there are several challenges to making formation flying a reality:
- Safety Concerns: Aircraft would need precise coordination to maintain safe distances without collisions.
- Advanced Autopilot & AI: Human pilots would need AI assistance to adjust flight paths in real-time.
- Regulatory Approvals: Aviation authorities like the FAA and EASA must approve new airspace rules to allow formation flying.
The Future of Formation Flying in Aviation
While commercial formation flying is still in the experimental phase, military aircraft have been using similar techniques for decades. As artificial intelligence and self-sufficiency are developing, the possibility of adopting this technique for commercial aircraft is becoming more realistic. If it succeeds, the future of aviation can be cheaper, more environmentally friendly, and effective and all of this will be possible thanks to the original engineers, and birds.
Nature has always been a source of inspiration for human innovation, and formation flying could be the next big leap in aviation. While challenges remain, ongoing research and projects like fello’fly suggest that the dream of fuel-efficient aircraft flying like a flock of geese could soon become a reality. Would you fly on an airplane that flies in the above-stated formation?
