The next narrowbody big question: Will the fuselage go composite?

Hexcel CEO Tom Gentile predicts that technological advancements will enable the use of composites in high-rate narrowbody aircraft production programs. Gentile expressed confidence that Airbus and Boeing intend to incorporate composite materials into their upcoming next-generation narrowbody jet designs. Specifically, he anticipates both manufacturers will utilize composite fuselages alongside existing composite wings. This represents a fairly revolutionary shift for these major aerospace companies. The announcement was made during a discussion on September 9th, highlighting a significant potential change within the industry’s approach to aircraft construction.