Chris Low • 19.06.23 •  2 mins

In this blog we ask the questions, why is international collaboration so important and what are we doing to secure the UK position in the global marketplace?

Why is international collaboration important?

We operate in a global sector which recognises the imperative of reaching Net Zero by 2050. This is undoubtedly one of the biggest challenges the sector has ever faced and it requires coordinated action at pace. However, neither the private sector or individual nation states have the investment capacity or capabilities to meet these targets alone.

A successful transition to ultra-efficient and zero-carbon aircraft technologies as set out in the UK aerospace technology strategy Destination Zero will need an integrated, global approach. This will span actors from across the sector including technology providers and innovators, manufacturers and operators, regulators and governments. Working collaboratively is vital to help manage integration challenges, so that improvement of one system does not adversely affect the performance of the overall system or aircraft as a whole.

International collaboration at the pre-competitive stage helps to de-risk technology development, by spreading cost and allowing development to take place where the greatest strengths exist. By working closely with other nations, we increase access to cutting-edge technologies, infrastructure, talent and markets. The UK supply chain is one of the most innovative and capable in the world. It is important we continue to shine a light on it and create opportunities for UK suppliers to integrate with the global economy.

A global approach is vital to shape the regulatory/legislative and economic conditions for the successful deployment of globally competitive new aircraft with disruptive performance gains in time for the necessary impact by 2050.

What is the ATI doing to drive international collaboration?

The ATI’s mission is to transform aerospace through technology and innovation. To make the UK a vibrant ecosystem for Net Zero aerospace technology, growing the nation’s global market share in aerospace while radically cutting emissions is essential. The ATI considers international engagement to be a key part of the UK’s aerospace technology strategy.

We are forming strong partnerships of various types with a small number of countries where the benefits of collaboration will have the most impact. Our thought leadership programme will grow our activity with overseas research partners by identifying areas of mutual strategic importance where collaboration can enhance technology development.

For example, the ATI-led FlyZero project identified a truly transformational path forward: a liquid hydrogen-fuelled aircraft able to fly to any destination globally with one refuel. This type of project demonstrates UK leadership and enables us to influence the conversation on future technologies and collaborative opportunities. Failing to collaborate effectively with international partners could mean the risk of missing out on the full potential of the global market prize.

The ATI is coordinating action and championing UK capability – including showcasing UK innovation at Paris Air Show. We are looking forward to reconnecting with global partners and collaborating with them on the journey to Destination Zero.

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The Aerospace Technology Institute is exhibiting on stand F155, Hall 2B, UK Pavilion. As part of the Start Me Up Scheme, the following organisations are showcasing their technology on the ATI stand:

• AdaptixNDE – Aerospace
• Ai Build
• Archangel Imaging
• BeyondMath
• Evolito Ltd
• Fluxart
• Progressive Technology Group
• TISICS
• Ultima Forma Ltd
• WAAM3D