Singapore will become the world’s first airport testbed for next-generation aircraft propulsion technologies under a new agreement signed Monday.
The Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS), CFM International and Airbus signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on February 2 at the 3rd Changi Aviation Summit, agreeing to explore how CFM’s Revolutionary Innovation for Sustainable Engines (RISE) technologies could be integrated into real-world airport operations. The collaboration will focus initially on open fan engine architecture, a prominent design feature within the broader RISE initiative.
Open fan architecture removes the traditional engine casing, allowing for larger fan blades that increase airflow and boost efficiency while reducing drag. Developers say this configuration, part of the RISE program’s technology suite, could improve fuel efficiency by more than 20% compared with current narrowbody turbofans. It could also support compatibility with sustainable aviation fuels and hybrid-electric systems.
Under the MOU, the parties will develop a framework to assess how open fan engines and associated technologies would affect aircraft systems, airport infrastructure, operational procedures, safety standards and regulatory requirements. They also plan operational trials at Singapore Changi Airport or Seletar Airport to study the feasibility of the open fan engine in airline operations, though the press release announcing the agreement did not supply a timeline for the tests, which are likely to span several years.
The agreement was signed by CAAS Director-General Han Kok Juan, CFM International representatives including David Dufrenois signing on behalf of CFM, and Airbus Executive Vice-President of Engineering and Head of Technology Rémi Maillard.
