Aeronautics 2020 vision focuses on four Cs
More than 60 EU-funded projects are represented at the European Commission's Aeroday's 2001 meeting, which opens in the German city of Hamburg today. During the event, Research Commissioner Philippe Busquin will unveil a vision for European aeronautics in the year 2020, developed at his request by a high-level group of industry leaders. In 2020 airline tickets at all prices will buy the four Cs: choice, convenience, comfort and costs, Mr Busquin will tell conference participants. He will also unveil a set of ambitious goals, including a punctuality rate of 99 per cent for all flights in all weather conditions. Increased safety and concern for the environment will also feature in the commissioned report. Currently more than 30 per cent of public funded civil research for the aeronautics sector is organised through the EU's Fifth Framework Programme, as part of the Key Action on 'New perspectives in aeronautics.' Some 700 million euro is channelled through this programme to support six technology platforms, including the biggest European aero-engine research programme, on show in Hamburg this week. The event also provides the backdrop for a forum for small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) as part of the AeroSME initiative to foster the involvement of European SMEs in Community research. Some 120 matchmaking meetings for SMEs are already arranged. The EU's current call for proposals in aeronautics, which has a budget of 230 million euro, is open until the end of March 2001. Proposals are invited for critical technologies aiming to reduce aircraft development costs and time to market, to improve aircraft efficiency, environmental impact, structures and safety. The call is also open for technology platforms for power-optimised aircraft, a friendly aircraft cabin environment and for advanced wing configurations.