A380 Flight Lab unveils new look for Open Fan tests

Airbus and CFM International have unveiled the new livery for the A380 Flight Lab at the Farnborough International Airshow, marking the aircraft’s role in supporting the CFM RISE Open Fan flight test campaign later this decade.

The flight test programme will validate the technology readiness of the Open Fan engine for future commercial aircraft as part of CFM’s RISE technology demonstration programme. By removing the traditional engine casing, the Open Fan design accommodates a larger fan, improving fuel efficiency and reducing drag.

Airbus and CFM engineering teams continue to advance aircraft and engine integration, having recently completed the first conceptual flight test design review.

With flight testing drawing closer, the partners are continuing to work together to bring the next-generation propulsion concept from design to demonstration.