Researchers at NASA and the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) have recently successfully completed tests on a new morphing wing technology that could potentially dramatically reduce fuel costs and aircraft noise.

The Adaptive Compliant Trailing Edge (ACTE) technology was developed at NASA’s Armstrong Flight Research Center in Edwards, California, and has been tested over the past six months.

The flexible wings also helped reduce aircraft noise during take-off and landing, which lessens the impact of aviation on the environment.

“We are thrilled to have accomplished all of our flight test goals without encountering any significant technical issues,” said AFRL program manager Pete Flick from Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Ohio.

“These flights cap 17 years of technology maturation, beginning with AFRL’s initial Phase 1 SBIR contract with FlexSys, and the technology now is ready to dramatically improve aircraft efficiency for the Air Force and the commercial aviation industry.”

“Armstrong’s work with ACTE is a great example of how NASA works with our government and industry partners to develop innovative technologies that make big leaps in efficiency and environmental performance,” said Jaiwon Shin, associate administrator for NASA’s Aeronautics Research Mission Directorate at the agency’s Washington headquarters

“This is consistent with the agency’s goal to support the nation’s leadership in the aviation sector.”