Airbus has unveiled a bird-like conceptual airliner design with the goal of motivating the next generation of aeronautical engineers, demonstrating how they can make a difference by applying technologies researched at the company in hybrid-electric propulsion, active control systems and advanced composite structures.

Revealed last month at the Royal International Air Tattoo air show in the UK, the theoretical design is a hybrid-electric turbo-propeller aircraft for regional air transport.

Inspired by the efficient mechanics of birds, it has wing and tail structures that mimic those of a bird of prey, along with individually controlled ‘feathers’ that provide active flight control.

Airbus senior manager Martin Aston said (: “One of the priorities for the entire industry is how to make aviation more sustainable — making flying cleaner, greener and quieter than ever before. We know from our work on the A350 XWB passenger jet that nature has some of the best lessons we can learn about design.”

While not intended to represent an actual aircraft, the ‘Bird of Prey’ is based on realistic ideas, providing an insight into what a future regional aircraft could look like www.airbus.com).

It includes a blended wing-to-fuselage joint that mirrors the graceful and aerodynamic arch of an eagle or falcon, demonstrating the potential of bio-mimicry (the design and production of materials, structures and systems inspired by nature).

It also highlights the 50th anniversary of Airbus as an aircraft manufacturer.