Ryazan engineer Nikolay Pogorelov developed a design for an unusual aircraft with a variable geometry lower fuselage. The idea aims to increase lift and reduce the take-off and landing distance of the aircraft. The documents were published in the FIPS database on April 23, 2026.
The developer proposed a design with a lifting fuselage, the cross-section of which is close to a flattened circle, and a V-shaped swept wing on a strut.
The main element of the new design is the hinged sides in the lower part of the fuselage. They can rotate to a given angle, increasing the area and generating additional lift during take-off and landing.
During cruise flight, these elements are pressed against the body and do not create additional drag.
Pogorelov provided for retractable horizontal tail elements that enhance controllability at low speeds. He calculated that redistributing the load between the wing, fuselage, tail unit, and hinged elements allows for a reduction in take-off and landing roll distances, as well as a decrease in fuel consumption.
The unusual concept is aimed at transport aviation – carrying passengers and cargo.