Quote:
Originally Posted by secretapproach  Future planes using open rotor engines will probably fly even a little bit slower and lower than current jets. |
If by open rotor you mean the UHB/UDF fan tests conducted by Boeing and MD. Those programs were tested and scrapped in the late 1980s. No-one to my knowledge is even considering those currently.
http://www.airliners.net/search/photo.search?album=1685
I'll pass on the lower and slower/less fuel discussion. There are too many holes in that theory. People fly to save time. Comfort and class have already been removed from airlines, take away speed and you have no reason to fly.
Ever wonder where the ERJ135 originated?
http://www.airliners.net/open.file/0386521/L/