For the NGF project “Aviation in Transition,” the subproject “Strengthening the Ecosystem” explored the relevance, awareness, and expertise of the subprojects regarding the certifiability of technology in line with aviation regulations. This report presents the findings from an initial baseline assessment conducted in the second quarter of 2024, based on interviews with the relevant subproject leaders.
The main conclusion is that most leading companies have a clear understanding of the topic and are adequately prepared for now. The assessment also highlights significant differences between the subprojects in terms of certification requirements. Most subprojects are already in contact with EASA, ILT, or an OEM as a direct regulator or client. Typically, the leading organizations guide their project partners, though further exploration is required in some areas.
Project leaders have expressed particular concerns about the awareness, knowledge, and expertise regarding certification at the three technical universities. Additionally, one subproject planning to develop a flying demonstrator raised concerns about ILT’s knowledge and capacity.
The potential for stronger participation in European industrial working groups and projects focused on “accelerating certification processes” (e.g., CONCERTO) is currently underutilized, as is the opportunity for closer one-on-one collaboration with EASA. Short-term opportunities for national cooperation are limited and are likely to remain relatively superficial.
Based on the baseline assessment, we propose the following recommendations and next steps:
Expand the assessment to include additional project partners within the consortia.
Organize workshops for Aviation in Transition participants, focusing on both general and specific needs, with the aim of enhancing collaboration.
Explore concerns and solutions related to ILT.
Assess, strengthen, and secure Dutch participation in European industrial working groups and projects.
Report
Here is the link to the full report: https://nag.aero/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/EV-20240610-TF-Certificeerbaarheid-rapport-1-Inventarisatie-v04.pdf
Slides
Also worth reading are the slides “Principles of Certification for Aviation in Transition,” which provide a clear overview of key aspects of the certification of processes or products. Here is the link to the slide deck: https://nag.aero/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/EV-202400408-Beginselen-van-Certificatie-voor-LiT-handout.pdf