HERWINGT at the Heart of Clean Aviation Innovation

HERWINGT has entered its final stage with strong momentum toward hybrid electric regional flight, advancing an integrated wing concept that targets a 50% aircraft level fuel burn reduction versus the 2020 state of the art through aerodynamic improvements, lightweight structures, and hybrid electric readiness. Highlights from the year include progress on morphing high lift devices, digital twins and AI-enhanced MDAO for rapid design iteration, and open access dissemination via conference papers and videos, underscoring a maturing technology pipeline aligned with Clean Aviation goals.

The consortium also showcased industrially relevant manufacturing breakthroughs—such as Liquid Resin Infusion for highly integrated multi-spar structures and sequential resistance welding/thermoplastic in situ consolidation for recyclable, repairable leading-edge components—while reporting active engagement across premier venues (AIAA, EASN, SAMPE, ICCM, PCIM). 

We are pleased to announce the launch of the second season of the HERWINGT video series, “The Demo Series,” highlighting the twenty demonstrators developed within the project.

The first two episodes are now available.

The opening episode showcases the initial laboratory tests conducted by the Politecnico di Milano (Polimi) team on their newly assembled morphing trailing edge. These early trials represent a significant step forward in validating both the concept and operational behaviour of the morphing technology. The tests included:

• A quasi-static test at 70% of the maximum deflection. 
• A preliminary low-frequency dynamic test at 1.5 Hz with limited deflection.

The second episode of the HERWINGT Demo Series presents the development of a 3.2 metre span Outer Wing Box (OWB) demonstrator, designed to showcase next generation structural and manufacturing technologies aimed at reducing both weight and production costs.

This high aspect ratio wing section features a hybrid architecture that brings together metallic closure ribs, thermoplastic internal ribs, a thermoplastic lower stiffened panel, fast curing prepreg spars, and an infusion moulded skin panel.

Engineered for full scale structural testing, the demonstrator plays a central role in validating the project’s design, manufacturing, and assembly methodologies. The initiative supports a targeted Technology Readiness Level progression from TRL 3 to TRL 5, marking a significant advance toward the wing structures of tomorrow.

You can watch Episodes 1 and 2 here.

Finally, we are excited to launch the HERWINGT SoundBytes, our brand new audio feature designed to highlight—in a concise and dynamic way—the major technological advancements emerging from the HERWINGT project.

Our first edition is dedicated to the Outer Wing Box, one of the key structural components shaping the future of lightweight and sustainable aviation. 

HERWINGT SoundBytes Series is complementary material to the HERWINGT Demo Series, offering valuable insights while you are on the go (e.g. commute, gym, work breaks). 

Enjoy this first episode and stay tuned — more audio episodes are coming soon!

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.