Development Plan for Open Fan Flight Demonstration

The Subsonic Vehicle Technology and Tools Project under NASA’s Advanced Air Vehicles Program is pursuing the development of a comprehensive plan for an open-fan flight demonstration, driven by Congressional guidance in the Fiscal Year 2026 budget. This initiative, led by the Glenn Research Center, aims to define the technical requirements, scope, and feasibility of demonstrating an open-fan propulsion system in flight, with the goal of advancing next-generation subsonic aircraft technology. The project seeks collaboration with external entities to leverage expertise and resources necessary to advance this critical aerospace innovation. The effort is forecasted to be released on April 1, 2026, under the NAICS code 541715, which pertains to research and development in physical, engineering, and life sciences. Point of contact for technical inquiries is Anthony L. Nerone, with Robert E. Watts serving as the Small Business Specialist to facilitate engagement with small businesses. The project is structured to support national priorities in aeronautics research and is expected to inform future development of quieter, more efficient aircraft propulsion systems, though no specific location or set-aside provisions are indicated in the current forecast.