Boeing working on hybrid plane to cut fuel use, noise, emissions OSHKOSH, Wis. — An electric airliner? Imagine a hyper-efficient aircraft as large as a Boeing 737, although weighing much less. It would run quieter and cleaner than any other commercial plane ever made, requiring two-thirds less energy, according to NASA-funded research. The hybrid-powered jetliner of the future would operate on batteries or jet fuel, depending on whether it's cruising or taking off and climbing, when the most thrust is required. The concept of electric aircraft generated a resounding buzz amid the drone of pistons and the roar of gas...
