Boeing has revealed the latest version of its Transonic Truss-Braced Wing (TTBW), which researchers say will fly higher and faster than the previous TTBW concepts. The new configuration is designed to offer unprecedented aerodynamic efficiency while flying at Mach 0.80.

The folding wings measure 170 feet in length. The high wingspan is made possible by the presence of a truss, which supports the extended length of the ultra-thin wing.

Originally, the TTBW was designed to fly at speeds of Mach 0.70 – 0.75. To increase the aircraft’s cruise speed, Boeing explains, the new concept now has an optimised truss and a modified wing sweep. By adjusting the wing sweep angle, the truss is said to carry lift more efficiently.

The new changes follow extensive wind tunnel testing at NASA Ames Research Center. For nearly a decade, Boeing and NASA have been studying the concept as part of the Subsonic Ultra Green Aircraft Research (SUGAR) programme.

The research focuses on innovative “green aviation” concepts that reduce noise and emissions while enhancing performance.