Title: Future aviation research in Australia: addressing air transport safety, efficiency and environmental sustainability

Authors: Roberto Sabatini

Addresses: School of Engineering, Aerospace Engineering and Aviation Discipline, RMIT University, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia

Abstract: This editorial discusses the main areas of research concentration in the Australian air transport sector with a focus on the associated challenges and opportunities. The main topics include improved efficiency and capacity of airports, integrated air traffic management (ATM) systems, cost-effective through-life support of new and ageing aircraft, alternative fuels and low emission technologies. Additionally, advancements in aviation safety and security are identified as a strategic area for the Australian aviation sector. Both short-term and long-term initiatives are necessary to increase the economic and environmental sustainability of the sector and are therefore being targeted by various industrial and government organisations in Australia.

Keywords: aerospace research; ageing aircraft; airport systems; air traffic management; alternative fuels; aviation safety; aviation security; avionics; biofuels; composite structures; structural health management.

DOI: 10.1504/IJSA.2017.086217

International Journal of Sustainable Aviation, 2017 Vol.3 No.2, pp.87 - 99

Received: 15 Aug 2016
Accepted: 13 Mar 2017

Published online: 03 Sep 2017 *

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