Programme Safe and competitive operations
NLR helps governmental authorities, the aviation sector and society to ensure aviation operations remain competitive, now and in the future, and to make civil and military aviation, and society, safer.
The aerospace sector has had to deal with several major disruptions in recent years (for instance COVID-19 and the consequent downsizing of operations and then later scaling them up again, staff shortages, economic developments and the war in Ukraine). It is also a sector that is highly sensitive to political and other developments such as the nitrogen emissions issue and the reduction of flight movement numbers at Schiphol Airport. Society is increasingly critical of aviation, not only with an eye on climate change but also because of the safety risks. Meanwhile, new users of our scarce airspace (such as drones, UAM or electric aircraft) are increasing the pressure on it.
To handle these and future challenges properly, the aerospace sector must be better capable of coping with change. It is important to strengthen its competitive position, and policies and regulations must be well aligned with the needs of both the sector and society. The key issue here is ensuring safety, both in the air and on the ground.
This programme helps governmental authorities, the aerospace sector and society meet these challenges by making the aerospace sector in the Netherlands safer, more resilient and more cost-effective. We do this by presenting facts, specific proposals for action and advice, as well as through the targeted use of innovation.
Showcase 2025
NLR is delivering the building blocks in 2025 for a new operational concept that will enable fixed approach routes, integration of manned and unmanned aviation and fully functional airport operations control. Optimum-performance airport operations control and a redesign of airspace are needed for handling air traffic at lower operational costs and with higher efficiency (including in the event of disruptions).
Key areas for 2023
In this programme, we develop knowledge, technology, products and services for
- Improving operational processes and business operations
This involves focusing on aerospace systems and companies or agencies, looking at the role of humans, training, cost-benefit analyses, impact analyses and scenario development.
- Reinforcing the adaptability and resilience of the Dutch aerospace sector, making it better able to cope with challenges and disruptions
To do that, we focus e.g. on existing or emerging risks (climate change, new technology), impact analyses of potential disruptions and real-time monitoring of people and systems.
- Supporting IenW (the Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management) and the Ministry of Defence in policy and regulation
The programme helps governmental departments create their visions and set up, implement and monitor or enforce effective policies and regulations.
- Gaining an understanding and increase the applicability of new technology and procedures
The programme helps shorten the time to market for new technology and procedures. This involves assessing the applicability of new technology, certification (including new forms), performance (including safety) and human-machine interaction.
For the implementation of this programme we work together with the government, the aviation sector, and national and international research institutes and universities.