NASA seeks proposals that offer small aircraft dramatic improvements in acquisition and life-cycle costs, performance, safety and reliability, environmental compatibility (noise, emissions and fuel), ease of operation and passenger comfort through innovative propulsion concepts and/or integration of innovative propulsion technologies. In all cases, the offeror must demonstrate acquisition and life-cycle costs that are at least comparable to current propulsion system costs. Anticipated benefits must be defined using appropriate theoretical and experimental data. An understanding of the basis of the technology innovation and its application to aircraft engines must be demonstrated. Offerors must address commercialization potential. Paths to FAA certification must be described. Proposals are sought in the following areas:

Propulsion Technologies
NASA seeks propulsion technologies for small aircraft that will result in substantial improvements over those targeted in the NASA General Aviation Propulsion program. Any improvements in areas such as performance, safety, and environmental compatibility must be accomplished with affordability as a prime consideration. Substantially reduced costs, at least 75 percent less than 1997 systems, are highly preferred. Advanced technologies which could lead to advantageous alternate propulsion systems and fuels (e.g., electric propulsion, hydrogen fuel, etc.) are also sought. Offeror must provide strong rationale for the viability and affordability of the propulsion concept which would use the proposed technology, and show substantial benefits over conventional propulsion systems. It is recognized that unconventional propulsion systems will likely be long term developments, however, it is highly preferred that the specified technology development addressed by the offeror have an application which could be commercialized in the nearer term.

Propulsion System Control and Health Monitoring Technology
NASA seeks proposals for low cost electronic engine control and health monitoring system technologies which substantially reduce pilot workload, fuel consumption, and engine emissions, and increase safety, reliability, and time between overhaul (TBO). Engine diagnostics should focus on pilot notification of engine status and operability, post-flight diagnostic methods, trend analysis, maintenance aides, and automatic fault accommodation. Much of this technology already exists, but it is too costly and/or too costly to certify for light aircraft. In some cases, cost reductions by orders of magnitude must be achieved. Development of methods for using commercially available high volume hardware and achieving low cost software production and validation is encouraged.