Editorial comment

摘要

In July, Airbus unveiled its futuristic 'Bird of Prey' conceptual airliner. The regional hybrid-electric, turbo-propeller aircraft is inspired by efficient mechanics of a bird, following the company's interest in biomimicry. The reason behind the name comes from wing and tail structures that mimic those of an eagle or falcon; it features individually controlled feathers providing active flight control. The split tail enables fine control, while the lack of a vertical tail significantly reduces drag. Among the other biomimicry features are a blended wing-to-fuselage joint mirroring the graceful and aerodynamic arch of a bird of prey.