Rolls-Royce Eyes Single-Aisle Jets with New UltraFan Demo
Rolls-Royce is finalizing plans for a smaller UltraFan engine demonstrator aimed at powering next-generation single-aisle aircraft by the 2030s.
Photo Source: New Atlas
Rolls-Royce is moving forward with a scaled-down version of its UltraFan geared turbofan, aiming to lock in the demonstrator’s design by mid-year. The company plans to conduct ground testing by 2028, marking a critical step in its ambitions to compete in the highly competitive single-aisle aircraft market during the 2030s.
This new iteration of the UltraFan will serve as a technological bridge between the large-engine family already developed and the requirements of future narrow-body jets. The move signals Rolls-Royce’s increasing focus on penetrating a market dominated by current players like CFM International and Pratt & Whitney.
The UltraFan program has already demonstrated fuel savings and improved efficiency for widebody aircraft. By shifting gears toward single-aisle applications, Rolls-Royce is positioning itself as a key propulsion player for next-generation aircraft platforms.
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