4th February 2021
11:13 am
4th February 2021
11:13 am
A three-strand technology programme exploring sustainable aviation is to be led by GKN Aerospace in partnership with 15 collaborators.
(Credit: GKN Aerospace)
Backed by UKRI’s Industrial Strategy Challenge Fund (ISCF), the programme is part of the £125m Future Flight Challenge that will be rolled out over the next four years. This initial phase – supported by £4.5m – is aiming to advance electrification, autonomous flight and sustainable aviation networks under its three different branches, two of which will be headed by GKN Aerospace.
Skybus is targeting the development of a large eVTOL (electric Vertical Take-Off & Landing) vehicle capable of transporting 30-50 passengers. According to GKN Aerospace, the project will seek to transform the ‘park & ride’ concept, taking mass transit to the skies over heavily congested routes and providing a brand new mode of transport while also relieving pressure on terrestrial traffic. Partners on this strand include Swanson Aviation Consultancy, Pascall+Watson and the Connected Places Catapult.