General Electric designed this proof-of-concept turboprop “unducted fan” engine as part of NASA’s Advanced Turboprop Project, which was aimed at overcoming the three-fold increase in fuel prices resulting from the 1973 Middle East oil embargo. GE modified a standard F404 engine with advanced “propfan” blades in a unique gearless counter-rotation configuration, which reduced fuel consumption at flight speeds by 32 percent.

NASA successfully flight tested the engine in 1986–87 on modified Boeing 727s and McDonnell Douglas MD-80s. The engine earned the NASA and industry team the prestigious Collier Trophy for 1987. While the engine met its efficiency and overall performance goals, fuel prices fell when the embargo ended, and further development costs could not be justified.

 Display Status

This object is not on display at the National Air and Space Museum. It is either on loan or in storage.
Object Details
Date Circa 1986 Country of Origin United States of America Type PROPULSION-Turbines (Jet) Manufacturer General Electric Aircraft Engines
 Physical Description Type: Turboprop Power Rating: 14,914 kw (20,000 eshp) at 1,300 rpm Compressor: 7-stage axial Combustor: Annular Turbine: Single-stage high pressure, single-stage low pressure Dimensions Diameter 357 cm (140 in.)
 Inventory Number A19920001000 Credit Line Gift of General Electric Aircraft Engines and transfer from the Naval Air Systems Command Data Source National Air and Space Museum Restrictions & Rights Usage conditions apply
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