ADEPT - A Thin-Haul Aircraft Design Concept

Abstract

The Aachen Distributed Electric Propulsion Transporter (aDEPt) presents a versatile aircraft concept that offers an efficient and cost-effective transport model for connecting remote towns or small cities to larger central hubs in metropolitan areas. Key design features derived from requirements set by the current market demands include a hybrid-electric powertrain, distributed electric propulsion systems, a morphing trailing edge as well as a practical cabin conversion and loading concept. The aircraft excels in terms of life cycle costs through optimized operation models, low noise emissions and high efficiency through the given propulsion system when compared to other thin-haul aircraft. Initial calculations, without considering autonomous flight, show that the aDEPt is 30.2%, 33.3% and 46.6% cheaper to operate than the P2012, C402, and PC12, respectively. This is, in part, due to the aDEPts capability of flying a fully electric 125 NM mission, which significantly reduces operating costs and emissions. The concept is designed for a maximum range of 350 NM with a cruise speed of 250 knots. Additionally the aDEPts avionics configuration allows for autonomous operations, making it a sustainable aircraft design for the coming years of aircraft operations.