At the 2025 Airbus Summit, Airbus revealed its vision for the future of commercial aviation, showcasing advancements aimed at transforming the industry in the coming decades. The company outlined plans for a cutting-edge single-aisle aircraft, expected to enter service in the latter part of the 2030s, featuring next-generation technology. Airbus also shared updates on its progress toward hydrogen-powered flight, emphasizing the evolution of key technologies essential for this sustainable aviation breakthrough.
Airbus elaborated on the technological components that could drive the development of a more fuel-efficient single-aisle aircraft, promising a 20-30% improvement in fuel efficiency over current models. Additionally, the aircraft would have the capability to operate on up to 100% sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). Airbus also introduced innovative design concepts, offering a glimpse into the various configurations under consideration for this future aircraft, which will play a critical role in achieving the aviation sector’s goal of net-zero emissions by 2050.
Key technologies being explored include highly efficient engines, such as novel open fan designs, as well as long, foldable wings that would significantly enhance aerodynamics. The aircraft’s development also incorporates next-generation batteries to enable hybrid propulsion systems, using electricity to power both propulsive and non-propulsive functions. Additionally, the aircraft will benefit from lightweight materials and integrated systems, promoting enhanced connectivity and efficiency.
Airbus Head of Future Programmes Bruno Fichefeux says, “Every second, an Airbus aircraft takes off – connecting people, cargo and business around the world. We have the most advanced aircraft portfolio in the market and the A321XLR is at the very forefront of today’s single-aisle aircraft technology. Now we are taking the best of what we’ve done and preparing another jump to make our single-aisle aircraft even better and pioneer the future of flight, when the time is right.”
Airbus Head of R&T Karim Mokaddem adds, “Airbus teams are working relentlessly towards the key decisions that will ultimately finalise the choices of the aircraft’s engine type, wing design and additional innovations once their maturity is demonstrated.”
Each of these technology building blocks will play a key role in enabling a new generation of commercial aircraft that will deliver step change improvements in all domains for efficiency and productivity and bring a considerable contribution to the decarbonisation of air travel in the decades to come.”
The advancements in these technologies were highlighted during the Airbus Summit 2025, held on March 24 and 25. The event brought together leading industry experts and innovators to explore the future of sustainable aerospace.
