Collins Aerospace, Pratt & Whitney and TU Delft partner on sustainable aviation research

Collins Aerospace, Pratt & Whitney and Delft University of Technology (TU Delft) have signed a master research agreement (MRA) to collaborate on sustainable aviation research. The partnership will explore advanced materials, hydrogen propulsion, advanced manufacturing, and industrial design. Over the next five years, Collins Aerospace and Pratt & Whitney, both part of RTX, will work closely with TU Delft's graduate research facilities, students, and staff on multiple research projects.

“Collaboration between RTX engineers and university research institutions plays an important role in developing our understanding of emerging technologies, while also supporting the next generation of talent that will drive our industry forward,” said Michael Winter, RTX Chief Science Officer. “Our MRA with TU Delft – our first agreement of its kind with a European university institution – will focus on advancing technologies to support more sustainable aviation, which is key to the future of our industry.”

The first projects include Collins Aerospace and TU Delft's work on a high-speed intelligent inspection system to improve manufacturing processes for lightweight and recyclable aircraft materials. Additionally, Pratt & Whitney and TU Delft are collaborating to develop novel engine configurations that leverage thermal energy recovery technologies, aiming to improve fuel efficiency and reduce CO2 emissions in commercial aircraft.

Professor Henri Werij, Dean of TU Delft's Aerospace Engineering faculty, remarked: “We're excited and very happy to sign this new agreement. It gives us the opportunity to step up our collaboration on sustainable aviation with the engineering teams of Collins Aerospace and Pratt & Whitney. Collaboration with leading aerospace companies is absolutely crucial to take the necessary steps towards reaching the goal of climate-neutral aviation by 2050.”

This new agreement builds on existing partnerships between Collins, Pratt & Whitney, and TU Delft, including participation in the European Clean Aviation initiative. The companies also sponsor TU Delft's aerospace student association and work closely with the Aerospace Innovation Hub at the university.