Aerospace giant Airbus has today announced a global competition to develop new green ideas for the aviation industry.

Airbus launched the Fly Your Ideas (FYI) competition at the Farnborough International Airshow to support the development of ideas to improve the environmental and ecological performance of the aviation industry.

Students from universities throughout the world are invited to submit ideas to improve the 'Environmental Life Cycle' of modern aircraft, taking into account the environmental aspects of production and performance across five stages: design; supply chain; manufacturing; aircraft operations and aircraft end-of-life. Applicants may be of any age or nationality and be studying any discipline.

Airbus Executive VP, Charles Champion, spoke at the announcement of the competition:

“Fly Your Ideas is a unique opportunity for students to be part of Airbus' vision for an eco-efficient aviation industry of the future. The competition is designed to stimulate ideas for both a more connected and sustainable world. It also enables Airbus to engage with students and research teams to identify R&T opportunities to balance the increased demand for air travel with a better environment.”

The year-long competition will take place over three progressively challenging rounds and will be judged by a panel of experts from Airbus and the wider aviation industry. Winners will take home a prize of €30,000, with a runner up prize of €15,000.

The deadline for proposals is 30 November 2010.

Applicants should register on the Airbus FYI competition website (opens in new window).

Source: Airbus, 23/07/10