FollowSome of the best aircraft in the world are inspired by unique birds, and this zero emissions jet concept from designer William Brown is no exception. The Lockheed Stratoliner is a hydrogen jet that uses oversized wings to create extra lift for extended high-altitude flights. The design was inspired by the Bar-tailed Godwit, an Australian bird that holds the record for the longest nonstop flight (7,258 miles from Alaska to Australia without feeding!). Like the Godwit, the Stratoliner can go anywhere in the world without refueling.
The zero-emission engines are just as out there. They are called Cryogenic Hydrogen Turbofan engines, and can operate in a low power mode like fighter jet engines to save a significant amount of fuel. All that boils down to an eco-friendly aircraft that can fly anywhere on earth without a pit stop. The large aircraft has an interesting front end and a unique split tail, but we’re not so sure it’s the most aerodynamic shape possible. Time will tell if Lockheed adopts a similar concept for a hydrogen aircraft.
