Northrop Grumman’s Futuristic Flying Wing Cribs From its Past
Northrop Grumman’s flying wing airliner concept has a wingspan of 230 feet, 58 feet wider than the B-2 bomber, according to Aviation Week & Space Technology. The cargo version (top photo) would have a wingspan of 260 feet, though the cabin area would be smaller than the passenger version, according to the article.
The shielded engines greatly reduce the noise signature, and they’re often seen on flying wing ideas. The sleek design also could improve fuel efficiency, though existing flying wing designs have yet to fully realize that potential because of drag penalties that occur through the control of the aircraft.