A joint NASA and Boeing team have completed the first phase of test flights of the X-48B plane, a blended wing body concept.  The design is being tested as a potential airliner concept for the future.  The blended wing body design uses part of the body of the aircraft for lift, the futuristic plane will be more fuel efficient and quieter than current airliners.

The X-48B plane is a model 8.5 % of the full size design and has a 21ft wing span – thats one serious model aircraft!

Flight testing has been successful despite the tailless design being difficult to fly at low speeds.  An onboard computer helps the pilot maintain control of the plane.  Data collected has helped to upgrade the onboard computer and a new prototype, the X-48C, is now being built to continue the testing and design of the blended body wing concept.

Future airliners will be able to carry hundreds of passengers in the wider body of the new design. Below is a picture created to show the possible future of airlines.

Flight X-48B You are cleared for take-off on runway 14...