High Bypass Turbofan Engines are Not Meant for Small Planes

You may have observed that jet engines on commercial aircraft are getting larger. This is due to their use of high bypass turbofan engines. To understand more about high bypass turbofan engines, I recommend reading further on the subject. However, it’s important to note that these engines are not advantageous for all types of aircraft. In fact, smaller commercial planes, especially those weighing below 14 tons, do not utilize high bypass engines, regardless of their efficiency benefits.

Small planes with a weight below 14 tons are typically turboprops, like the Embraer 120 Brasilia and the BAe Jetstream 41. Passenger jets of this size are generally private aircraft, such as the Learjet 75 and the Pilatus PC-24. So, why can’t these smaller planes utilize high bypass turbofan engines?

Size and Weight Considerations

One of the primary concerns with high bypass turbofan engines in small aircraft is their size and weight. These engines are relatively large and heavy, which can be impractical for smaller aircraft designs. The substantial weight of these engines could significantly limit the payload capacity and overall performance of a small aircraft, making them less efficient and more cumbersome to operate.

The Cost Factor

The development and manufacturing of high bypass turbofan engines are complex and expensive processes. For small aircraft manufacturers and operators, the high costs associated with these engines can be prohibitive. This financial burden can make it challenging to justify the use of high bypass turbofan engines in smaller aircraft, especially when more cost-effective alternatives are available.

Maintenance and Operational Costs

High bypass turbofan engines require regular maintenance and inspections to ensure optimal performance and safety. This necessity adds to the overall operational costs of using these engines in small aircraft. Frequent maintenance can be a significant financial burden for small aircraft operators, making these engines less appealing for smaller-scale aviation operations.

Noise Levels

While high bypass turbofan engines are celebrated for their lower noise levels compared to other engine types, they may still produce too much noise for small aircraft operating in residential or noise-sensitive areas. The noise factor can be a critical issue for small aircraft, which often operate closer to populated areas and need to adhere to stricter noise regulations.

Suitability for Operating Environments

The operating environments for small aircraft can vary greatly from those of larger commercial jets. High bypass turbofan engines may not be suitable for certain conditions, such as short or unimproved runways, where other types of engines might be more appropriate. The specific requirements of small aircraft, such as nimble handling and shorter takeoff and landing distances, may not be well accommodated by the characteristics of high bypass turbofan engines.

Performance Limitations

While high bypass turbofans offer high levels of thrust, they may not align with the performance needs of smaller aircraft. Smaller planes often require more agility and flexibility in their flight capabilities, which these engines may not provide. The performance trade-offs associated with using high bypass turbofan engines can be a significant drawback for small aircraft applications.