RETROFIT - Reduced Emissions of TRansport aircraft Operations by Fleetwise Implementation of new Technology
Overview
Background & policy context:
RETROFIT analysed the possibilities and attractiveness to retrofit the large existing fleet of commercial airliners with new technical solutions. A new generation of airliners is on the horizon. Existing aircraft still have a long life to serve. But the operational environment is changing. Airlines are confronted with emission trading limits, new noise rules, increasing fuel prices and new safety and security demands. Aircraft need to operate in a new ATM environment where older aircraft cannot comply with the new ATM standards. Furthermore, the passengers expect to enjoy the highest levels of comfort possible.
Objectives:
The project addressed the stakeholder requirements first. Based on that, it investigated current and future technology options to retrofit existing aircraft. The need to perform additional research to make retrofits attractive were addressed, as well as the question if specific research activities should be integrated in the Framework Programmes. The issue of design for retrofit were addressed. Special attention was given to certification as modified aircraft should be accepted as derivatives of existing types in order to keep certification time and costs as low as possible.
Methodology:
A cost benefit analysis was made, based on existing airline fleets and potential applications of new technical solutions. It resulted in an assessment which airplanes can be retrofitted with what new technologies.
Furthermore, an assessment was made about funding mechanisms for promising business cases. The results of the project were widely disseminated. Promising cases led to a substantial economic activity in many European countries.
Share this page