Review of the advantages and challenges of strut-braced and truss-braced aircraft

Purpose This study seeks to explore the effect of using strut-braced or truss-braced wing configurations on narrow body passenger aircraft, filling a significant gap in the current literature. The research aims to provide fresh insights into the challenges and benefits that come with these configurations, enhancing the understanding of some of the obstacles that might be faced in the design process. Design/methodology/approach The study employs a qualitative approach, utilizing case studies, experimental results and conceptual design studies. Data were collected from available literature. Findings The review included in this paper shows that strut-braced and truss-braced configurations bring not only many advantages but also a multitude of challenges, suggesting that their application in passenger aircraft needs to be studied more thoroughly. These findings provide evidence that these configurations should be taken advantage of in future conceptual design studies with important implications for aviation and the European Commission’s strategy to reach carbon neutrality by 2050. Originality/value This study presents a fresh perspective on the development of strut-braced and truss-braced wing aircraft, delivering important insights that enhance the existing knowledge of these unconventional configurations with regard to the current interest in reducing the negative impact aviation has on the environment. The findings identify opportunities for future research and potential practical implementations.