Multidisciplinary Optimization of Strut-BracedWings with Distributed Electric Propulsion for Local Air Quality and Noise Improvements

The INDIGO project, funded under the Horizon Europe programme, investigates innovativeaircraft configurations aimed at reducing aviation’s environmental footprint. This study focuses on the conceptual design of a midrange aircraft featuring Large Aspect-Ratio Wings (LARW) and Distributed Hybrid Electric Propulsion (DHEP), evaluated using a comprehensive Multi-Disciplinary Analysis and Optimization (MDAO) framework. The framework integrates models for aerodynamics, structural weight, powertrain performance, and noise, enabling optimization across competing objectives such as fuel efficiency, local air quality, and noise impact on airport vicinities. Preliminary results demonstrate the potential of LARW-DHEP to significantly reduce emissions and noise, particularly during low-altitude operations where aviation’s environmental impact is most pronounced. This study underscores the role of advanced MDAO techniques and novel propulsion architectures in advancing the sustainability of next-generation aircraft, contributing to global efforts to achieve carbon neutrality in aviation.