World’s Biggest Aircraft Fires Up All 6 Gigantic Engines For The First Time
Dylan Schwartz
Fired Up.
A few months ago the world was introduced to the Stratolaunch, the world’s biggest aircraft by wingspan. With two massive fuselages, a wingspan longer than a football field and six humongous engines many voiced doubts if it would actually work. Despite what the critics say the Stratolaunch is edging closer to flight and recently tested its engines for the first time.
The massive Stratolaunch jet was brought to life by Mircosoft Co-founder Paul Allen for the purpose of launching satellites into orbit. To reach the heights necessary to launch satellites the Stratolaunch requires some major propulsion in the form of six Pratt & Whitney Turbofan engines.
“Over the next few months, we will continue to test the aircraft’s engines at higher power levels and varying configurations, culminating to the start of taxi tests.”
– Vulcan
It may be a while before the Stratolaunch is suitable for taking to the skies but they are taking steps little by little to ensure success. This big jet faces many big challenges but the teams at Vulcan are ready to confront them, the success of the engines was merely the first step.
