The transport of passengers and cargo has a high relevance both for economy and society. Bridging long distances with low effort is a matter of course in today's life. But how can mobility be realised also in a log term under the varying boundary conditions? This is the leading question for research at ILT.
A central target is to create an ecologically sustainable air transportation system. But in the same time, economic aspects must not be ignored - the society's mobility demand has to answered in an affordable way. Thus, research at ILT begins at the identification of requirements and targets for future air transportation systems.
On this basis the system's elements like aircraft, infrastructure and operational procedures are designed, analyzed and optimized. Thereby, the integration of novel technologies plays an important role for enhancing the system's efficiency.
Novel materials for example might enable lighter structures but in the same time increase the manufacturing costs. Determining the benefit of this technology needs to consider how a more expensive aircraft and reduced fuel consumption at a certain fuel price affects the airline's business model. An adapted ticket price finally connects the technology with the society.
The comprehension of the complex air transportation system with its elements and interdependencies constitutes the principal challenge for research at ILT. Like this, both technical and societal questions are addressed as it is reflected in the institute's mission statement: Seeing the BIGGER PICTURE.
