Boeing X-48C Blended-Wing-Body Research Variant

The Boeing X-48C was a remotely piloted conversion of an X-48B blended-wing-body research aircraft, used by NASA and Boeing to investigate low-speed handling and a configuration intended to shield engine noise. It replaced the B model’s three engines with two, moved the wingtip vertical surfaces inboard beside the engines, and extended the aft deck. The C configuration first flew on August 7, 2012, and completed 30 flights before its final flight on April 9, 2013. Together, the B and C configurations accumulated 122 flights. These subscale tests supplied aerodynamic and control data for future efficient transports; the C model was a modified research configuration of an existing airframe.