Aircraft optimization for minimal environmental impact

The feasibility of integrating environmental considerations into aircraft conceptual design is explored. The approach involves designing aircraft to meet specific noise and emission constraints while minimizing cost. A detailed noise prediction code (NASA Langley Research Center's ANOPP) is coupled with an engine simulator (NASA John R. Glenn Research Center's NEPP) and in-house aircraft design, analysis, and optimization modules. The design tool and a case study involving a 280-passenger airliner are discussed. The study includes operational aspects, such as steeper approaches and takeoff thrust cutback for noise reduction. Low-emissions (CO2 and NOx) designs are also evaluated. Results show that optimized designs featuring cumulative noise reductions of up to 25-dB effective perceived noise level may be obtained with as little as a 3% increase in operating cost. The study also establishes a tradeoff between noise and emissions performance.