Improving the Efficiency of Engines for Large Nonfighter Aircraft Paperback / softback

Because of the important national defense contribution of large, non-fighter aircraft, rapidly increasing fuel costs and increasing dependence on imported oil have triggered significant interest in increased aircraft engine efficiency by the U.S.

Air Force. To help address this need, the Air Force asked the National Research Council (NRC) to examine and assess technical options for improving engine efficiency of all large non-fighter aircraft under Air Force command.

This report presents a review of current Air Force fuel consumption patterns; an analysis of previous programs designed to replace aircraft engines; an examination of proposed engine modifications; an assessment of the potential impact of alternative fuels and engine science and technology programs, and an analysis of costs and funding requirements. Table of ContentsFront MatterSummary1 Introduction2 Selection of Candidates3 Proposed Engine Modifications and Re-engining4 TF33 Series Powered Aircraft5 Recurring and Nonrecurring Cost Estimations6 Other Considerations7 Alternative Fuels8 Technology Preparedness and Insertion9 Acquisition, Financing, and SupportAppendix A Biographical Sketches of Committee MembersAppendix B Meetings and SpeakersAppendix C Key Recommendations from Previous StudiesAppendix D Background Information on Re-engining RequirementsAppendix E Background Information on Lessons Learned from PreviousRe-engining ProgramsAppendix F Background Information on Re-engining the C-130Appendix G Sensitivity Analysis