The first two GE Aviation Passport engines – including their Nexcelle-supplied nacelle systems – have been installed on Bombardier's first Global 7000 flight test vehicle, marking another milestone for the Nexcelle joint venture.

These engines and their nacelles were processed at the GE Aviation Peebles Test Operation in Peebles, Ohio, enabling the integration stage including fit and functional checks to be performed on the complete Passport Integrated Propulsion System (IPS).

The two-engine/nacelle shipset were transported to Bombardier's Toronto production site, where they were installed on the first Global 7000 FTV1.

Integration of the two engines at Peebles follows earlier testing with the Passport IPS, including more than 100 flight hours with another engine installed on GE Aviation's Boeing 747 testbed aircraft, operated from Mojave, California.

Nexcelle is a key partner to GE Aviation on the Passport Integrated Propulsion System, supplying the nacelle elements that are composed of the inlet, fan cowl, the thrust reverser and its hydraulic actuation system.

Among the key features of Nexcelle's nacelle system for the Passport IPS are an innovative anti-ice system that uses a directed flow nozzle concept; and a 360-degree, single-piece extended composite inner barrel incorporating advanced acoustic protection for lower engine noise levels.

Also, the simplified clamshell type-composite fan cowl developed for the nacelle allows for improved maintenance, while a target-type thrust reverser with kicker plates and a fixed nozzle provides consistent cruise performance and enhanced thrust efficiency in reverse mode.

Overall, the nacelle designed for Passport will be lighter than the state-of-the-art nacelles of its class, thus contributing to powerplant performance.