Next Generation Aircraft Propulsion: A Pratt & Whitney Approach

Abstract

Aircraft engines that minimize fuel consumption and operate on sustainable aviation fuels are key to meeting the air transportation sector’s commitment to net zero CO2 emissions by 2050. This article reports on work to implement sustainable propulsion technologies, including advanced gas turbine propulsion technologies, engines that are compatible with approved sustainable aviation fuels, hybrid-electric propulsion, and hydrogen propulsion. The article also describes efforts to reduce the environmental footprint related to condensation trails (contrails) from aircraft engine exhaust plumes.