SAFRAN TESTS RADICAL JET ENGINE DESIGN IN HISTORIC WIND TUNNEL

French engine maker Safran had begun wind-tunnel tests for a radical jet engine design called "RISE" for the next generation of medium-haul jets. Safran and GE Aerospace have been testing building blocks for the engine of the open-bladed jet so the engine can be able to reduce fuel use and emissions by 20%.

It was positioned as a possible successor to the "LEAP" model used on the Boeing 737 MAX and about half of competing Airbus A320neo jets. A key part of the future certification is expected to focus on the safe handling of any blade failures, since the front fan that provides most of an engine's thrust would not be housed inside the conventional housing familiar to airline passengers.

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