Scientists working on creatin on opposed-piston Diesel engine

Diesel on the plane

Good examples of EU funded projects under Smart Growth programme

11.09.2026

An ultralight aircraft or a gyroplane with a diesel engine? Seems impossible, and yet it is not! Designers from Kalisz have teamed up with scientists from Lublin, and together they are working on such a power unit intended for aircraft. The expected result may be a surprise for all enthusiasts of flying. Not only will the engine use less fuel, but it will also emit less carbon dioxide.

Thanks to a grant from the National Centre for Research and Development received under the INNOLOT programme, Wytwórnia Sprzętu Komunikacyjnego “PZL-KALISZ” SA has been working on such an engine in cooperation with Lublin University of Technology since 2016. ‘Currently, the test engine is undergoing braking tests, which are being conducted at the University. Simultaneously, we are designing the unit’s target configuration. Our aim is to develop a high pressure charged two-stroke opposed-piston diesel engine. It has no valves and, therefore, it is lighter and simpler when it comes to construction. The engine has the power of up to 100 kW, i.e. around 134 hp. In comparison with other aircraft engines, it uses less fuel and emits less carbon dioxide

– explained Bartłomiej Skórzyński, the chief designer at WSK “PZL-KALISZ” SA.

Unique in the world

WSK PZL-KALISZ is the world's only manufacturer of piston engines with a power of 1000 hp applied in AN 2 and M18 Dromader aircraft. Currently, it is testing vehicles with fuel injection systems, which will allow using automotive fuels.

Details

Programme

Smart Growth Programme

EU Fund

European Regional Development Fund  

Project

A compression ignition engine for aircraft

Project cost

PLN 28.1 million, including approx. PLN 17.6 million from the European Regional Development Fund