The Open Fan Jet Engine

Aircraft engines are taking a step backward not in terms of efficiency but in design. The modern jet engines are enclosed within a protective container called a nacelle, the new Open Fan powerplant being developed would not have the fan completely enclosed, making it resemble more of a retro propeller engine. However, the design is the most efficient and sustainable option currently tested that promises to reduce fuel consumption by up to 20%.

The Open Fan Jet engine is being developed by French engine maker Safran Aircraft Engines, French American aerospace company CFM International, France’s ONERA (Office National d’Etudes et Recherches Aérospatiales), and GE Aerospace through the RISE program. It’s one of several designs included an open fan engine being developed by General Electric Aerospace and NASA which reduces fuel consumption by 10%.