Areas of expertise
NLR conducts research and develops knowledge and technological solutions for applications in aerospace. Our researchers work on various innovative technologies and methods that are universally applicable and can be used in various projects. To effectively apply these technologies and methods, we have organised this knowledge into ‘Areas of expertise’. Each area represents a specific area of expertise. Discover the NLR-areas of expertise here and how our research finds its way into aerospace.
Aircraft Operation and Certification
Area of expertise Aircraft Operation and Certification New, disruptive technologies must not jeopardise flight safety. That’s why all these technologies, like electric flying, scaled flight testing and unmanned systems, are certifiable. Also emerging technologies in combination with digital engineering, explainable AI, certification by simulation and virtual certification and testing are increasingly finding their way into […]
Air traffic management and Airport operations
Area of expertise Air traffic management and Airport operations The way we deal with flying and aircraft is going to change, and with it the layout and use of our airspace and airports. Because the Netherlands is a small country and users have many different needs, this involves major challenges. The aim is to achieve […]
Construction and Manufacturing
Area of expertise Construction and Manufacturing Society demands cleaner, quieter and safe aviation. Reducing the use of fossil fuels is one of the main challenges. Aerospace systems will therefore need to change radically. These systems are also becoming increasingly complex. With our knowledge, we develop the technological building blocks needed to design, build and operate […]
Data Science and Engineering
Area of expertise Data Science and Engineering The world is rapidly automating and digitalising, and it’s essential for the Dutch Defense and industry to keep pace with this development to remain competitive and effective. Within the broad field of Data Science & Engineering, we focus on data analysis, including artificial intelligence (AI). Our goal is […]
Defence and Security
Area of expertise Defence and Security The new ‘world order’ constantly poses new challenges for the Dutch armed forces and security services. Since technologies develop at a rapid pace, the requirements for effectiveness and flexibility of operations, systems and people are high. Short-cycle innovation and the need for autonomy for the Netherlands and Europe are […]
Maintenance and Repair
Area of expertise Maintenance and Repair Both civil and military aviation benefit from improved fleet availability and deployability, lower maintenance costs and sustainability. Our research in the field of maintenance and repair delivers innovative maintenance and repair solutions, giving the (Dutch) aerospace industry, operators and the air force a technological and economic advantage. Outline of […]
Platform technology and system design
Area of expertise Platform technology and system design The aerospace industry is innovating in every possible way. NLR develops the knowledge that enables companies to develop new, more sustainable aircraft. This includes new aircraft concepts (including vertical flight platforms and drones), more efficient aerodynamic shapes and new methods of propulsion, aeroacoustics, avionics systems, and power […]
Safety and Human performance
Area of expertise Safety and Human performance With our research, we aim to ensure that the qualities and limitations of the operator are properly taken into account when designing new developments in aviation. We also support organisations in their efforts to work even more safely. We maintain and develop tools for research into safety and […]
Space technology
Area of expertise Space technology Autonomous, guaranteed access to space is crucial for today’s society. NLR therefore conducts research into new technologies and applications in space travel. Social and safety issues are paramount, as are economic opportunities. We collect input from stakeholders, study trends in space travel and explore technological, social and (geo)political developments. Based […]
Sustainability and Environment
Area of expertise Sustainability and Environment Aircraft transport goods and connect people all over the world. Aviation therefore plays an important role in our lives. At the same time, aviation causes noise pollution and their greenhouse gas emissions contribute to global warming. By 2050, the aviation industry must meet the Dutch and European climate objectives […]
Training and Simulation
Area of expertise Training and Simulation NLR is the strategic knowledge partner of the Royal Netherlands Air Force in this research area and also works closely with other parts of Defence. We are working with the Air Force to modernise the education and training programme. There is a particular focus on learning ecosystems and data-driven […]