COMPANION Project: Advancing Aviation Technology
On January 1st, 2024, the COMPANION project (Common Platform and Advanced Instrumentation Readiness for ultra efficient propulsion demonstration) was launched. It is a Clean Aviation 30-month research project focusing on developing a flight test demonstrator platform to validate new propulsion systems coordinated by Airbus Operations SAS and involving Airbus Operations GmbH, Airbus Operations SL, DLR, ONERA, NLR, ECL, CEIN, EASN-TIS, DNW, INSA, INSAVA and Airbus Operations Limited (associated partner). The propulsion systems planned to be tested in Clean Aviation Phase 2 aim to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by at least 30% compared to 2020 levels, aligning with European targets for more efficient aviation.
The COMPANION project will create a common flight test platform using an Airbus A380, designed to accommodate advanced propulsion technologies like the Open Fan test engine and the hybrid electric Ultra High Bypass Turbofan, using both conventional and sustainable aviation fuels. The platform will be equipped with advanced instruments to collect performance data during flight tests.
By 2026, the platform will be ready for engine installation, allowing for subsequent testing phases.
Key challenges include preparing for flight clearance and conducting Wind Tunnel Tests of the Open Fan engine installed on an A380 mock-up.
The outcomes of COMPANION will pave the way for future flight tests aimed at providing essential data to support the development of more efficient propulsion systems.
As the project progresses, COMPANION will play a critical role in advancing aviation technology, with the goal of making future air travel more efficient and with lower CO2 emissions compared to the current aircraft generation. More updates will follow as this important work continues.
The journey commenced with the kick-off meeting in Toulouse on January 30th, 2024, held at AIRBUS OPERATIONS SAS with the participation of all involved partners representing the aerospace industry, academia, and aeronautical associations.
The project is supported by the Clean Aviation Joint Undertaking and its members.
Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or Clean Aviation Joint Undertaking. Neither the European Union nor Clean Aviation JU can be held responsible for them.