Bombardier is investing $16.7 million over three years into two cooperative aerospace research projects involving advanced aircraft systems design and development and more environmentally friendly technologies. Both projects are part of larger industry, government, academic, and research institute collaborations.
“Through this strong alliance between industry, government, and researcher partners, we are proud to not only push the limits of technology and build greener, more efficient aircraft but also to increase the competitiveness of the Québec aerospace industry,” said Bombardier chief technology officer François Caza.
The first, AĂ©ro21, will involve 24 companies and a $49.3 million investment over three years. The Government of Quebec is contributing 25 percent of that total and Bombardier is committing $14.2 million. The Montreal-headquartered manufacturer said its participation would focus on expanding the use of computerized models to test aircraft systems and components from design through certification. The goal is to bring products to market faster and at lower development costs.
The remaining part of the Bombardier investment is for the third phase of the Smart Affordable Green Efficient (SA²GE) project. Launched in 2010, the project is exploring possibilities for “smarter, more efficient, and effective technologies” that reduce the environmental footprint. One area being explored under this project is the development of multifunctional business and commercial aircraft wings that optimize aerodynamics and weight, reducing costs and fuel consumption.
