Within DLR aeronautics research, six key concepts address the core challenges in air transport for safe and environmentally sustainable flight. They focus programmatic control on target products and do this across discipline and institute boundaries. The aim is to pursue and implement key technologies together with industry within the framework of national guiding concepts and international programmes. This aim extends to the virtual integration of an innovative aircraft.
Scientists and engineers from various DLR institutes and research disciplines work closely together on innovations for aeronautics. They cover the entire air transport system, from individual components and the technical challenges of entire aircraft to the complex interplay of air traffic. The aim is to carry out a complete life cycle and technology assessment.
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The Electric Aircraft
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The demand for air transport is on the rise. At the same time, there is an ever-increasing call from society at large to significantly reduce the impact of air transport on the environment and climate. |
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Long-haul aircraft
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Passenger numbers for global air travel have been rising steadily for many years. The number of passenger kilometres flown worldwide doubles every 15 years. |
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Urban air mobility
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Whether in urban or sparsely populated areas, new and highly automated types of aircraft are set to play an ever-increasing role in global passenger and cargo transport over the coming decades. |
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Rescue helicopter
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Future rescue helicopters are expected to be able to reach their destination quickly, safely, quietly and flexibly – around the clock, regardless of weather conditions and over long distances. |
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Efficient air traffic management
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The EU's vision for air transport, Flightpath 2050, sets out clear requirements. In future, 90 percent of all passenger journeys within Europe should take no more than four hours door to door. |
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Virtual product
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At present, the development, testing and production of new aircraft designs is associated with such considerable timing and financial risks that a mere setback could threaten the existence of entire companies. |