XTI Aerospace, a U.S.-based company specializing in vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) aircraft technology, has achieved a major engineering milestone. The company has successfully updated the fuel system design for its TriFan 600 aircraft.
The latest improvement increases fuel volume in the wings from approximately 300 gallons to 400 gallons, while also minimizing unusable fuel in the system. This update is a major step toward the company’s goal of achieving first-quarter 2025 product and engineering targets.
“The TriFan 600 continues to mature in its design, and in the case of the fuel system, we expect to exceed our performance criteria target,” said Dave Ambrose, VP of Engineering at XTI Aircraft.
“We believe this latest fuel system design will significantly improve the maximum range and endurance of the vehicle.”
XTI Aerospace has been focused on optimizing the aircraft’s efficiency, particularly in extending flight range. The company expects the new fuel system to play a crucial role in improving the aircraft’s operational capabilities.
Engineering advancements continue
XTI Aerospace has been working through a series of engineering milestones for the TriFan 600. The company recently completed an updated engine air inlet and exhaust system design. This improvement enhances air intake, particularly in conventional flight, ensuring optimal airflow for the two turboshaft engines.
The team has designed a system that minimizes airflow disruption on the upper fuselage while also improving engine performance in both vertical and forward flight.
For the exhaust system, engineers have implemented a design that smooths engine exhaust flow. This not only reduces drag but also provides some forward thrust benefits, contributing to the aircraft’s efficiency. The combination of optimized air intake and exhaust is expected to enhance the overall performance of the TriFan 600.
XTI Aerospace has already completed several key product and engineering milestones in 2024. These include a downwash/outwash study to analyze airflows during vertical takeoff and landing, a formal FAA type certification application, and the optimization of the aircraft’s propulsion system.
More upgrades on the way
The company is now focusing on two more significant updates for the TriFan 600. One of these is the development of a flight deck mockup to refine pilot controls, ergonomics, and visibility. The other is an update to the aircraft’s structural model, known as the Global Finite Element Model (GFEM), which will evaluate and optimize load distribution across the latest aircraft configuration.
“Our engineering team continues to innovate while remaining laser-focused on our customers’ missions,” said Scott Pomeroy, Chairman and CEO of XTI Aerospace.
“We believe the new fuel system is designed to improve the range of the TriFan 600 aircraft and to exceed our previous design. We will be updating our publicly stated performance benchmarks in the coming weeks.”
XTI Aerospace is pushing forward with its engineering advancements as it prepares for the launch of the “Sparrow” subscale working model in early Q2. With ongoing refinements in aerodynamics, propulsion, and fuel efficiency, the company is positioning the TriFan 600 as a leading VTOL aircraft in the industry.
The XTI TriFan 600 is positioned as one of the fastest and longest-range VTOL aircraft in the world when completed. With a projected top speed of 345 mph (555 km/h) and a range of up to 700 miles (1,120 km), it aims to set a new standard in the industry.
