Airbus has been quietly test-ing models of a potential A320 replacement, even though a formal program launch is years away. The wind-tunnel efforts signal that, behind the scenes, Airbus is busy advancing the configuration for what it internally calls the A30X. The work parallels engine makers' activities: They are now stepping up efforts to validate the technologies required to power the next-generation short-haul products for both Airbus and Boeing. Airbus is exploring novel aircraft configurations in a wind-tunnel facility, says a company official. Because the A30X concepts differ markedly from traditional Airbus designs, extensive evaluations have to be performed, he adds.
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