Airbus ‘Bird Of Prey’ conceptualization for next generation of engineers

Underscoring how next generation engineers can make a difference by applying technologies researched at Airbus in hybrid-electric propulsion, active control systems and advanced composite structures.

Just over a month ago KLM released their Flying-V concept jet where passengers would be seated in the wings. This week, Airbus released a design of its own called ‘Bird of Prey’ at the Royal International Air Tattoo air show in the UK. This release of the concept was timed to underscore the UK’s aerospace industry leadership, and also highlights the 50^th anniversary of Airbus as an aircraft manufacturer.

Senior manager at Airbus Martin Aston explains, “Our Bird of Prey is designed to be an inspiration to young people and create a ‘wow’ factor that will help them consider an exciting career in the crucially-important aerospace sector. One of the priorities for the entire industry is how to make aviation more sustainable – making flying cleaner, greener and quieter than ever before. We know from our work on the A350 XWB passenger jet that through bio-mimicry, nature has some of the best lessons we can learn about design”.

Inspired by the efficient mechanics of birds, it has wing and tail structures that mimic those of a bird of prey, while featuring individually controlled feathers that provide active flight control. The theoretical design is a hybrid-electric, turbo propeller aircraft for regional air transportation.

“While not intended to represent an actual aircraft, Airbus’ Bird of Prey is still based on realistic ideas – providing an insight into what a future regional aircraft could look like. It includes a blended wing-to-fuselage joint that mirrors the graceful and aerodynamic arch of an eagle or falcon, representing the potential of bio-mimicry (the design and production of materials, structures and systems inspired by nature)”, Airbus states.