Boeing’s ecoDemonstrator program accelerates innovation by taking promising technologies out of the lab and testing them in the air to solve real-world challenges for airlines, passengers and the environment. Eight airplanes have served as flying test beds for the program since it began in 2012.

Projects include technologies that reduce fuel use, emissions and noise, and incorporate more sustainable materials. Other projects focus on cabin amenities that make flying more enjoyable for passengers—and features such as smart galleys, seats and lavatories that increase airline reliability and the efficiency of their fleets and crews.

Collaboration with industry partners is foundational to the ecoDemonstrator program to support the constant evolution of new ideas and advance aviation. Boeing is partnering with Seattle-based Alaska Airlines on the 2021 program—using one of the airline’s new 737-9s to test about 20 projects that can make aviation safer and more sustainable.

Other key partners include the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Meggitt PLC, Hanwha, Cobham Aerospace Communications, Inmarsat, the European Space Agency, University of Washington, World Energy and EPIC Fuels.