A future where flying is quieter and more environmentally friendly is closer to becoming reality following the unveiling of a revolutionary concept developed by researchers from Cambridge University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).

The Silent Aircraft Initiative was conceived as a way to greatly reduce noise levels endured by people living close to airports – a growing problem as the volume of flights increases around the world. The researchers claim any noise from the concept aircraft, known as the SAX-40, would be “imperceptible” beyond the boundaries of an airport.

On commencement of the project the team, supported by Rolls-Royce and Boeing, realised the highly-efficient design had potential to reduce fuel consumption by 25% compared to current aircraft.

Dr John Green of Greener by Design commented, “My first reaction on hearing of the Silent Aircraft Initiative was profound scepticism. Three years on, I have to concede that the SAI has surpassed my expectations by quite a margin. A radical approach to the challenges of the future comes more naturally from academia than industry, but the outcome will carry credibility only if the team is sufficiently strong and if it has the support of the Industry and access to modern design methods. The SAI team has shown how this can be done”.

Jim Morris, vice president of Engineering & Manufacturing, at Boeing Commercial Airplanes said: “This collaboration has stretched our imagination and generated some noise mitigation ideas that we will be able to study for potential future use.” The Silent Aircraft Initiative design is intended for the generation after next of aircraft for entry into service in 2030.