The challenge of reducing both airframe weight and manufacturing cost

Abstract

The evolution of composite material applications for primary structure of Airbus aircraft will be continued with A380, delivering significant weight savings. Selection of composite materials and manufacturing processes for A380 targets the same cost level for primary aircraft components as for advanced metal structures. The paper outlines how the cost target can be achieved using Resin Film Infusion (RFI) and Automated Fibre Placement (AFP) for the production of panels for the unpressurised aft fuselage.