Airbus and CFM International unveil the new A380 Flight Lab livery for the CFM RISE Open Fan program.
Published on 21st July 2026
At Farnborough International Airshow, Airbus and CFM International (CFM) showcased the new livery design of the A380 flight lab which will support the CFM RISE Open Fan flight test campaign by the end of the decade.
Flight tests are expected to confirm the technology readiness of Open Fan for future commercial aviation applications, part of CFM’s comprehensive RISE technology demonstration program. Open Fan is a jet engine design that removes the traditional casing, allowing for a larger fan size with less drag to improve durability and fuel efficiency.
Engineering teams from Airbus and CFM are actively advancing aircraft and engine integration, recently completing the first conceptual flight test design review.
As the program moves closer to flight testing, collaboration between Airbus and CFM remains key to bringing this breakthrough technology from concept to reality.
About CFM RISE
CFM RISE is program of CFM International, a 50/50 joint company between GE Aerospace and Safran Aircraft Engines. Unveiled in 2021, the CFM RISE program is advancing innovative technologies to shape the future of commercial aviation, including advanced engine architectures like Open Fan, compact core, and hybrid electric systems. The RISE program targets significant fuel savings, while meeting durability expectations and maintaining an uncompromising commitment to safety.