Long term strategy required for European aeronautics, says EAG
A long term research strategy for European aeronautics is required if the industry is to maintain its position as the main competitor to the United States, said the external advisory group advising the Commission on the aeronautics key action of the Fifth Framework programme. In a position paper agreed at a meeting on 23 March, the group of experts said all parties involved in European air transport should share the strategy. Aeronautics is an industry used to thinking 20 years ahead due to the high level of technological development required and the strategic implications for national security. The high cost of research means collaboration and coordination between the actors involved is crucial for the competitiveness of the European industry. The group recognises the positive impact of the aeronautics key action - part of FP5's growth programme - but recommends that mechanisms be established both to focus and rationalise research activities in Europe and to ensure the continuity of successful activities towards the next Framework programme. Three challenges face European aeronautics, according to group members. These are addressing European social needs, creating competitive products for the global market, and creating and applying new technology-based capabilities for future growth. To meet these challenges, the advisory group, chaired by Vice-President of Technology with Volvo Aero Corporation, Ulf Ollson, has a 'vision for the future'. The vision is based on leadership of the European industry in the global market and encouraging sustainable growth and quality of life through European air mobility. To meet these goals, the group proposes that the Commissioner for Research, Philippe Busquin, take a leadership initiative, forging a new partnership of consultation with European aeronautics stakeholders. This partnership could then be used to identify and quantify the major goals for the next 20 years to ensure that European aeronautics meets the needs of markets and citizens. The European Research Area proposed by Mr Busquin could be developed, says the group, to ensure the benefits of the new technologies are delivered with greater efficiency and focus at Community, national, regional and enterprise level. Aeronautics is a knowledge intensive industry, and the group says it is increasingly important to look ahead to keep abreast of the fast moving developments towards a knowledge-based society. 'In looking at European aeronautics it is important to assess its present condition and the challenges that lie ahead,' says the group's position paper. 'Even if European aeronautics is highly successful today, it faces intense global competition and new demands from community interests which require a strategic approach to the future.' The advisory group was set up on 20 November 1998. Members were chosen from top level professionals in the aeronautics field, mainly those with a high degree of technical expertise. The complete text of this report is available on the Europa sever: URL: http://europa.eu.int/comm/research/fp5/eag-aeronautics3.html(opens in new window)