Airbus is inspired by albatrosses to limit turbulence

With larger wings capable of folding, Airbus wants to reduce turbulence in the plane. This device could also save fuel. A passage in a cloud, strong winds, a storm… Airplane turbulence is sometimes violent and leaves an unpleasant memory for most passengers. In order to reduce the jolts, Airbus may have found a solution, thanks to larger wings. During model tests, they were able to bend in mid-flight to adapt to the wind.

Wings absorb turbulence

At altitude, these new planes will be equipped with radar to detect areas of turbulence and direct the wingtips accordingly

. “In the event of turbulence, in cruise, this device unlocks a bit like the wings of an albatross (…), the turbulence is absorbed by the wing”, explains Pierre Poncelet, project manager at UpNext – Airbus. These foldable wings could also reduce the