This Williams FJ44-3ATW turbofan engine powered the Virgin Atlantic Global Flyer. The lightweight, powerful, highly efficient jet engine enabled Steve Fossett to pilot the Global Flyer around the world nonstop, solo, without refueling in 2005. Fossett also set absolute distance and closed-course distance records with the aircraft in 2006.

The engine is part of the successful FJ44 series of high-bypass turbofans begun in the early 1980s, and designed for the general aviation market. Its development enabled the class of business jets typified by the Cessna Citation. The first production version, the FJ44-1, received FAA certification in 1992. It features a 5 to 1 thrust-to-weight ratio, integrally bladed fans and compressors, and such low-cost turbofan technology as an uncooled, high-pressure turbine, an effusion-cooled combustor, and a high-work, two-stage, low-pressure turbine.

 Display Status

This object is on display in Commercial Aviation at the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, VA.

Commercial Aviation
Object Details
Date Circa 2005 Type PROPULSION-Turbines (Jet) Designer Williams International, Commerce Township, Michigan
 Manufacturer Williams-Rolls, Inc., Ogden, Utah
 Physical Description Type: Turbofan, 2-shaft Thrust: 12,000 N (2,700 lb) Fan: Bypass ratio 5:1, single-stage, Compressor: Single-stage axial low pressure, single-stage centrifugal high pressure Combustor: Folded annular Turbine: Single-stage high pressure, 2-stage low pressure Weight: 272 kg (600 lb) Dimensions Length 158.5 cm (62.4 in.), Fan diameter 58.2 cm (22.9 in.)
 Inventory Number A20070018001 Credit Line Gift of Williams International Data Source National Air and Space Museum Restrictions & Rights Usage conditions apply
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