In-depth analysis of the benefits of retrofitting new technical solutions for existing aircraft
The aerospace sector is confronted with increasingly stringent regulations regarding emissions, noise and security, combined with increasing passenger demands for comfort and safety. Although numerous technical advances in aircraft design are on the horizon, the long-service life of existing aircraft highlights the need to ensure that improved technologies are in keeping with retrofit of the existing fleet of commercial aircraft. The EU-funded RETROFIT (Reduced emissions of transport aircraft operations by fleetwise implementation of new technology) project addressed this critical need. Project partners used a stakeholder workshop as a basis to create an inventory that provides a list of candidate technologies composed of present and future technologies that may be retrofitted to existing aircraft. They compiled recommendations relating to research and technology development for retrofits, and analysed experiences with previous and current retrofit programmes. The RETROFIT team considered certification issues. It reviewed the final list of technology inventory to determine if certification of the proposed changes is feasible, and if the certification effort becomes a limiting factor. Researchers performed a cost-benefit analysis on these mature technologies, namely avionics for Single European Sky ATM Research (SESAR) compatibility, new high-bypass ratio engines to existing A320 aircraft and taxiing by internal power. The aim was to explore if these potential retrofit options would be cost effective and could ultimately be attractive for funding bodies to support them. They also examined the European industrial involvement of such retrofits. Lastly, a series of recommendations for the aeronautics sector overall and EU-funded research programmes were made. RETROFIT should enhance the uptake of new and beneficial technologies in existing aircraft by focusing on those compatible with retrofit of the existing European commercial fleet. Such actions will have important benefits for the airline industry, consumers and the environment.
Keywords
Retrofitting, aircraft, RETROFIT, emissions
