Latest news with #WindRunner
Sustainability Times
15-06-2025
- Business
- Sustainability Times
'As Long as Three Airbus A320s': The WindRunner Megaplane Is About to Reshape Wind Power and Rewrite the Future of Green Energy
IN A NUTSHELL 🛩️ The WindRunner aircraft by Radia is designed to revolutionize the transportation of large-scale wind turbines. aircraft by Radia is designed to revolutionize the transportation of large-scale wind turbines. 🚜 It overcomes significant logistical challenges , enabling access to remote sites for wind farm installation. , enabling access to remote sites for wind farm installation. 📏 With a colossal size, it surpasses traditional cargo planes, enhancing the efficiency of wind energy production. 🌍 The WindRunner plays a crucial role in the global energy transition, contributing to the reduction of carbon emissions. The aviation industry is abuzz with excitement as the WindRunner, an ambitious project by Radia, takes flight. This colossal cargo plane is engineered to revolutionize the transportation of large-scale land wind turbines. By overcoming current logistical barriers, the WindRunner promises to transform how we harness wind energy, enabling access to previously unreachable sites. With its impressive dimensions and unmatched carrying capacity, this aircraft is more than just a logistical tool; it marks a significant turning point in the global energy transition, offering new opportunities to accelerate the production of renewable energy. A Solution to Wind Energy's Logistical Challenges Land-based wind energy is a crucial component of the energy transition, yet it faces a significant challenge: transporting its enormous components. Modern wind turbine blades can reach lengths of 230 feet, making their transportation by road or rail complex and costly. This is where the WindRunner comes into play. Designed to transport massive structures directly to production sites, even in the most remote areas, this aircraft allows for a more flexible and rapid installation of wind farms. With its colossal dimensions, the WindRunner redefines air transport capabilities. By expanding the possibilities for wind turbine location, it actively contributes to enhancing their energy efficiency and reducing carbon emissions. This logistical innovation could very well transform the future of renewable energy, making previously untapped sites accessible. 'China Builds 40-Story Giants': These Gravity Batteries Could Crush Lithium's Dominance and Trigger a Global Energy Power Shift Radia: A Leader in Aeronautical Innovation Since its establishment in 2016 by Mark Lundstrom, Radia has become a key player in aeronautical innovation. By developing the WindRunner, the company demonstrates a profound understanding of the challenges of the energy transition. By tackling logistical barriers, Radia offers a viable and innovative solution to accelerate the adoption of renewable energies. Beyond technical ingenuity, Radia's success is built on strategic partnerships and solid financial backing. With nearly $110 million raised, the company has attracted renowned investors and partners, such as LS Power and ConocoPhillips. These collaborations ensure the project's feasibility and strengthen Radia's position as a leader in the green aviation sector. 'NASA Eyes Game-Changing Breakthrough': These Sodium-Air Fuel Cells Could Soon Power Full-Size Passenger Jets Across Continents The Technical Specifics of the WindRunner The WindRunner stands out due to its exceptional technical characteristics, designed to meet the specific needs of land wind turbine transportation. With a fuselage length of 354 feet and a volumetric load capacity of approximately 290,000 cubic feet, it surpasses traditional cargo planes. Capable of operating on runways as short as 5,900 feet, it can access remote areas that are otherwise unreachable by other freight aircraft. This technical innovation is the result of meticulous design that combines robustness with flexibility. By facilitating the transport of large-scale wind turbines, the WindRunner helps optimize their energy efficiency, a major asset in the fight against climate change. It also opens new avenues for the expansion of land wind infrastructure. 'I Built a Laser from Hell': YouTuber Unleashes World's Strongest Handheld Beam That Instantly Melts Metal and Ignites Anything A Major Impact on the Global Energy Transition The WindRunner emerges at a crucial moment for the global energy transition. By facilitating the installation of wind turbines in remote areas, it plays a key role in optimizing wind resources and reducing carbon emissions. According to the International Energy Agency, land wind energy could account for up to 40% of global energy production by 2050. The WindRunner could be an essential catalyst in achieving this goal. By making wind energy more accessible and efficient, the WindRunner significantly contributes to the decarbonization of the energy sector. It represents a major advancement in the fight against climate change, offering a pragmatic and innovative solution to current energy challenges. The WindRunner, with its colossal dimensions and impressive capabilities, not only redefines air transport standards but also opens new prospects for the future of land wind energy. By facilitating the transport and installation of large-scale wind turbines, this aircraft helps make wind energy more accessible and efficient, playing a crucial role in the global energy transition. As the world shifts towards a more sustainable economy, what other groundbreaking innovations might emerge to support this movement? Our author used artificial intelligence to enhance this article. Did you like it? 4.4/5 (29)
Scottish Sun
11-05-2025
- Business
- Scottish Sun
From ‘Skytanic' to bizarre ‘blended wing' jet – five astonishing planes of the future we could see by 2030
With record-breaking ranges of 9,000 non-stop miles, to supersonic speeds that can slash flight times READY, JET, GO! From 'Skytanic' to bizarre 'blended wing' jet – five astonishing planes of the future we could see by 2030 TECHNOLOGY is rapidly changing on the ground, in space and the sky in between. Here's a glimpse into the not-so-distant future of air travel. 7 Soon to be the world's biggest plane, WindRunner, will be able to carry 12-times more than a Boeing 747 Credit: RADIA 7 Dubbed "Skytanic", the airliner will take to the skies by 2030 Credit: RADIA 7 The world's first "blended-wing body" plane, dubbed the Z4, could someday replace older Boeing jets Credit: JetZero 7 The 250-passenger Z4 plane, built by JetZero, has not yet been certified - but the company is hoping to launch it by 2030 Credit: JetZero 'Skytanic' Soon to be the world's biggest plane, WindRunner, will be able to carry 12-times more than a Boeing 747. Dubbed "Skytanic", the airliner will take to the skies by 2030, almost a decade after the idea was put forward by aerospace firm Radia. It will be tasked with transporting enormous cargo. WindRunner will clock in at an incredible 356ft - longer than the pitch at Wembley - and will be 79ft tall. 'Blended wing' jet The world's first "blended-wing body" plane, dubbed the Z4, could someday replace older Boeing jets. The unique design was just backed by United Airlines, which has plans to purchase up to 200 of the swanky new planes. The 250-passenger Z4 plane, built by JetZero, has not yet been certified - but the company is hoping to launch it by 2030. Managing director of United Airlines Venture told Business Insider that the Z4's oversized wing could create a "living room in the sky". 7 In October last year, the Beijing-based firm said that it successfully completed the first test flight for the prototype model Credit: YUNXING Yunxing superplane A futuristic 'superplane' that could ferry passengers from London to New York City in just 90 minutes is hoped to be in the sky by 2027. The Chinese company, Space Transportation, behind the project is reportedly inching closer towards the production of the aircraft, called Yunxing. In October last year, the Beijing-based firm said that it successfully completed the first test flight for the prototype model. The jet could potentially reach the speed of Mach 4 (3,00mph) - twice as fast as the British Concorde. World's first private jet that can fly 9,000 miles non-stop to launch across US and Europe after breaking records 7 This globetrotting jumbo jet is set to launch across US and Europe, having secured FAA and EASA certifications Credit: Gulfstream Globe trotter The Gulfstream G800 boasts a record-breaking range, allowing it to fly an incredible 9,000 miles without stopping. This globetrotting jumbo jet is set to launch across US and Europe, having secured FAA and EASA certifications. It's hoped it will be zooming across skies in 2030. Now the longest-range private aircraft in the world, the Gulfstream G800 can ferry passengers to almost anywhere in the world without taking a single stop. If the jet were to take off from London it could fly to any airport across the globe - with the exception of Sydney. It has three luxurious living areas for up to 19 passengers, as well as a dedicated crew compartment for maximum in-flight comfort. 7 Overture aircraft could feasibly fly passengers from London to New York City in just 3.5 hours at supersonic speeds Credit: The Mega Agency Boom Overture The supersonic Overture jet is on track for a 2029 launch, according to the company behind the project. US-based Boom Technology has forecast a market for up to 1,000 supersonic airliners, across 500 viable routes, with fares comparable to business class. Overture aircraft could feasibly fly passengers from London to New York City in just 3.5 hours at supersonic speeds. The flight currently takes roughly 8 hours on a standard commercial carrier. Laying the groundwork for Overture, Boom's XB-1 jet successfully reached supersonic speeds earlier this year. Bosses at the Colorado-headquartered firm believe it will be the first US-built commercial supersonic jet to hit the market
The Irish Sun
11-05-2025
- Business
- The Irish Sun
From ‘Skytanic' to bizarre ‘blended wing' jet – five astonishing planes of the future we could see by 2030
TECHNOLOGY is rapidly changing on the ground, in space and the sky in between. Here's a glimpse into the not-so-distant future of air travel. Advertisement 7 Soon to be the world's biggest plane, WindRunner, will be able to carry 12-times more than a Boeing 747 Credit: RADIA 7 Dubbed "Skytanic", the airliner will take to the skies by 2030 Credit: RADIA 7 The world's first "blended-wing body" plane, dubbed the Z4, could someday replace older Boeing jets Credit: JetZero 7 The 250-passenger Z4 plane, built by JetZero, has not yet been certified - but the company is hoping to launch it by 2030 Credit: JetZero 'Skytanic' Soon to be the world's biggest plane, Dubbed "Skytanic", the airliner will It will be tasked with transporting enormous cargo. WindRunner will clock in at an incredible 356ft - longer than the pitch at Wembley - and will be 79ft tall. Advertisement READ MORE ON AEROSPACE 'Blended wing' jet The world's first The unique design was just backed by United Airlines , which has plans to purchase up to 200 of the swanky new planes. The 250-passenger Z4 plane, built by JetZero, has not yet been certified - but the company is hoping to launch it by 2030. Managing director of United Airlines Venture told Business Insider that the Z4's oversized wing could create a "living room in the sky". Advertisement Most read in Tech 7 In October last year, the Beijing-based firm said that it successfully completed the first test flight for the prototype model Credit: YUNXING Yunxing superplane A The In October last year, the Beijing-based firm said that it successfully completed the first test flight for the prototype model. Advertisement The jet could potentially reach the speed of Mach 4 (3,00mph) - World's first private jet that can fly 9,000 miles non-stop to launch across US and Europe after breaking records 7 This globetrotting jumbo jet is set to launch across US and Europe, having secured FAA and EASA certifications Credit: Gulfstream Globe trotter The This globetrotting jumbo jet is set to launch across US and Europe, having secured FAA and EASA certifications. Advertisement It's hoped it will be zooming across skies in 2030. Now the longest-range private aircraft in the world, the Gulfstream G800 can ferry passengers to almost anywhere in the world without taking a single stop. If the jet were to take off from London it could fly to any airport across the globe - with the exception of Sydney. It has three luxurious living areas for up to 19 passengers, as well as a dedicated crew compartment for maximum in-flight comfort. Advertisement 7 Overture aircraft could feasibly fly passengers from London to New York City in just 3.5 hours at supersonic speeds Credit: The Mega Agency Boom Overture The supersonic Overture jet is on track for a 2029 launch, according to the company behind the project. US-based Boom Technology has forecast a market for up to 1,000 supersonic airliners, across 500 viable routes, with fares comparable to business class. Overture aircraft could feasibly fly passengers from London to New York City in just 3.5 hours at supersonic speeds. Advertisement The flight currently takes roughly 8 hours on a standard commercial carrier. Laying the groundwork for Overture, Bosses at the Colorado-headquartered firm believe it will be the first US-built commercial supersonic jet to hit the market Supersonic and Hypersonic Jets There are several types of hypersonic and supersonic jets. A breakdown of what's been happening in the industry and what's expected in the coming years. Talon-A Built by Stratolaunch Reported speeds of Mach 5 The first test flight conducted in 2024 Built by Nasa and Lockheed Martin Predicted max speeds of Mach 1.4 The first test flight in 2024 - but subject to delays Built by Venus Aerospace and Velontra Predicted max speeds of Mach 6 First test flight in 2025 Built by Hermeus Predicted max speeds of Mach 2.5 First test flight in 2026 Built by Hermeus Predicted max speeds of Mach 5 First test flight by 2030 Built by China's hypersonic plane programme Predicted max speeds of Mach 6 First test flight in 2025 Built by Hypersonix Launch Systems Predicted max speeds of Mach 7 First test flight in 2025
Associated Press
08-05-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
Radia and U.S. Department of Defense Collaborate to Assess Utility of WindRunner™, the World's Largest Aircraft, for Dual Use Civil-Military Oversized/Outsized Cargo Operations
BOULDER, Colo., May 8, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Radia, the developer of a transformational outsized, high-volume cargo aircraft, the WindRunner™, today announced a Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA) with the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD). With a length of 356 feet (109m) and a wingspan of 261 feet (80m), the WindRunner will have twelve times the volume of the 747 and the ability to land on short and unpaved runways. The CRADA, a research partnership between Radia and U.S. Transportation Command (USTRANSCOM), will focus on understanding the feasibility and operational effectiveness of the WindRunner as a potential commercial carrier option to support critical DoD logistics and transportation needs, such as through the Civil Reserve Air Fleet (CRAF). The agreement allows Radia and DoD to assess how the unique capabilities of the WindRunner allow moving critical military-unique cargo—and to serve the broader civil/ military oversized cargo market. Key areas of research under the CRADA will include: 'The WindRunner allows the world's biggest things to be delivered to the hardest-to-reach locations. This collaboration demonstrates how commercial capabilities may help to support U.S. national defense by integrating with and addressing military needs,' said Mark Lundstrom, Radia Founder and CEO. 'By leveraging the unique design and capabilities of the WindRunner, we can together explore innovative solutions for transporting outsized and high-volume cargo, enhancing the DoD's ability to respond to global challenges.' The CRADA enables joint research efforts, data sharing, and collaboration between Radia and DoD experts. Findings from this research will inform future strategy decisions and operational planning for dual-use civilian and military airlift capabilities. About Radia Radia has developed the WindRunner™, the largest aircraft ever built by volume. Designed for dual use, it enables efficient delivery of oversized cargo to locations with limited infrastructure—serving applications in clean energy, defense, aerospace, and emergency response. In the renewable sector, WindRunner allows the deployment of next-generation onshore wind turbines too large for land transport, unlocking cheaper and more abundant energy. Radia has been recognized by the World Economic Forum as a 'WEF Unicorn' and by Endeavor as an 'Endeavor Entrepreneur.' Learn more at Contact: Kathy Van Buskirk Head of Marketing & Communications, Radia [email protected] +1 720 771 7651 View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Radia
Malaysian Reserve
08-05-2025
- Business
- Malaysian Reserve
Radia and U.S. Department of Defense Collaborate to Assess Utility of WindRunner™, the World's Largest Aircraft, for Dual Use Civil-Military Oversized/Outsized Cargo Operations
BOULDER, Colo., May 8, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Radia, the developer of a transformational outsized, high-volume cargo aircraft, the WindRunner™, today announced a Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA) with the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD). With a length of 356 feet (109m) and a wingspan of 261 feet (80m), the WindRunner will have twelve times the volume of the 747 and the ability to land on short and unpaved runways. The CRADA, a research partnership between Radia and U.S. Transportation Command (USTRANSCOM), will focus on understanding the feasibility and operational effectiveness of the WindRunner as a potential commercial carrier option to support critical DoD logistics and transportation needs, such as through the Civil Reserve Air Fleet (CRAF). The agreement allows Radia and DoD to assess how the unique capabilities of the WindRunner allow moving critical military-unique cargo—and to serve the broader civil/ military oversized cargo market. Key areas of research under the CRADA will include: Cargo capacity and handling: Analyzing the WindRunner's ability to transport various types of DoD cargo, including space launch materials, oversized equipment, and humanitarian aid. Ground operations: Evaluating airfield suitability, ground handling procedures, and necessary infrastructure for efficient WindRunner operations. Operational planning: Developing mission profiles and assessing the aircraft's performance in different operational scenarios. Integration with existing DoD systems: Exploring the portions of typical DoD logistics networks that may best be served by the WindRunner commercial cargo option. 'The WindRunner allows the world's biggest things to be delivered to the hardest-to-reach locations. This collaboration demonstrates how commercial capabilities may help to support U.S. national defense by integrating with and addressing military needs,' said Mark Lundstrom, Radia Founder and CEO. 'By leveraging the unique design and capabilities of the WindRunner, we can together explore innovative solutions for transporting outsized and high-volume cargo, enhancing the DoD's ability to respond to global challenges.' The CRADA enables joint research efforts, data sharing, and collaboration between Radia and DoD experts. Findings from this research will inform future strategy decisions and operational planning for dual-use civilian and military airlift capabilities. About Radia Radia has developed the WindRunner™, the largest aircraft ever built by volume. Designed for dual use, it enables efficient delivery of oversized cargo to locations with limited infrastructure—serving applications in clean energy, defense, aerospace, and emergency response. In the renewable sector, WindRunner allows the deployment of next-generation onshore wind turbines too large for land transport, unlocking cheaper and more abundant energy. Radia has been recognized by the World Economic Forum as a 'WEF Unicorn' and by Endeavor as an 'Endeavor Entrepreneur.' Learn more at Contact: Kathy Van Buskirk Head of Marketing & Communications, Radia Kathy@ +1 720 771 7651
