The Commission-sponsored Advisory Council for Aeronautics Research in Europe (ACARE) formally unveiled its comprehensive SRA in November 2002, addressing the challenges facing the European aeronautics industry. They include ever-increasing air traffic, with its associated increase in noise, emissions, congestion, and delays, as well as heightened security concerns in the aftermath of 11 September 2001.
In March 2005, ACARE presented the second edition of its Strategic Research Agenda (SRA-2). The new edition looks 20 years into the future, presenting expected or potential technology requirements in the air transport sector, based on a series of possible scenarios for the coming decades.
The SRA sets the scene for future aeronautics research, serving as an overall guide in the planning of research under public, private, national and EU programmes, and reinforcing the Commission’s commitment to Aeronautics and Space as one of the seven priority thematic areas under EU’s research Framework Programme for 2002-2006 (FP6).
SRA objectives
In order to achieve the top-level objectives identified in the ‘Vision 2020’ report (published in early 2001), namely to meet society’s needs and to achieve global leadership for Europe in the sector, the SRA calls for integrated technological platforms, large-scale research test-beds, trans-national projects, and schemes to nurture innovation and technology transfer.
The specific objectives to be achieved include, among other things, 50% and 80% cuts in CO2 and NOX emissions; respectively, a five-fold reduction in accidents; reduction of noise by 50%; and increased punctuality across the board, meaning 99% of all flights should arrive and depart within 15 minutes of the scheduled time.
The new SRA lays the foundation for meeting ambitious but achievable objectives. With a budget of €1.075 billion allocated to the ‘Aeronautics and Space’ in FP6, the industry has a great opportunity in the coming years to improve and solidify its position in many areas.
Having all of the main industry players involved is critical. Achieving the ambitious Vision 2020 goals will require an equal commitment from governments, agencies, operators, and air traffic authorities in all Member States.
| More information on this subject:
|
