Innovation for the future of aeronautics and space
Over 1000 participants from across the globe gathered in Abu Dhabi from 30 April to 1 May 2018 to discuss the future of the aviation, defence and aerospace industries. Future corporate, government and military strategies were also presented at the Global Aerospace Summit. What must the aircraft of the future look like? How will new processes and technologies revolutionise manufacturing? What are the threats and risks of a distributed, digital world? Where do cutting-edge technological platforms and disruptive business models originate?
The 2018 Summit concentrated on the importance of aeronautics and space for humankind, and how these areas can bring progress to humanity as a whole. In an age of heightening international conflicts, the participants also dealt with the issue of the actions that must be taken to ensure that humankind can also succeed in a data-controlled, digital world.
Among the other items on the event itinerary was a high-level panel to investigate what contribution aerospace agencies can make in this context. Speaking in Abu Dhabi, Pascale Ehrenfreund, Chair of the DLR Executive Board, stated: "The principal objectives of an aerospace agency are defined by its statutory purpose and the governmental requirements. They must be implemented in clear programmes and missions that promote the interests of society. A division into aerospace applications and science, as well as aerospace technologies and infrastructures, is necessary. Nevertheless, only the synergies between these areas will truly guarantee success."
During the entire Summit, the 'Next Gen Leaders' initiative addressed the issue of careers within the aeronautics and space industries. Among the highlights of the initiative was the Young Space Leaders Forum, a gathering of the future generation of senior managers and engineers within the aeronautics and space industries.