EU–African aerospace collaboration flying high
Globalisation is changing the face of industries around the world. In Europe, the aeronautics industry is looking to remain competitive by strengthening its strategic international partnerships. One such partnership has formed between the EU and South Africa, which is the largest economy in Africa and boasts formidable industrial capabilities. The partnership was achieved through the EU-funded project 'Promoting European - South African research cooperation in aeronautics and air transport' (AEROAFRICA-EU). The project established a platform to upgrade research and development (R&D) in the aeronautics and air transport field, promoting as well collaboration with other African countries. After mapping aeronautics R&D capabilities in the country, the project team organised events and conducted workshops to identify key collaboration areas between Africa and Europe. These activities led to many new EU–Africa projects under the Seventh Framework Programme (FP7), supported by brokerage events, forums and training for firms to join EU projects. Demonstrating the global aspect of the project, AEROAFRICA-EU boasted research and academic partners from France, Germany, South Africa and Sweden. Four memorandums of understanding between the two regions were signed, including a specific agreement to promote transport research between the EU and South Africa. In parallel, the project team launched the AEROAFRICA website to disseminate information on project-related events and activities, enabling stakeholders to access important documents and resources as well. An overall strategic framework for promoting collaboration in aeronautics and air transport R&D emerged from the project, as well as key recommendations on achieving this vision. These efforts have facilitated access to knowledge and expertise for all stakeholders, increased participation in European projects and opened a host of new opportunities in the aeronautics field. The project has not only contributed to strengthening the aerospace industry in Europe, but also in South Africa and other African nations. The end result should be a strong industry and the emergence of high-tech advances that promise to upgrade the sector. With such dynamic partnerships involving two major regions of the world, the sky is the limit.
