| Abstract: | Airframe innovations in all relevant technological fields are important for the development of high performance airframes best to satisfy the market needs. The Airbus “intelligent” airframe is optimized in terms of new materials and advanced design, and implements smart structures technologies step by step. Hence, the competition between technologies (metal vs. composite) is leading to a hybrid airframe solution in the latest Airbus aircraft. This ensures that the best mature innovative technology is used for each specific application. Airbus is in the leading position for application of advanced technologies and has accumulated broad experience in all airframe technologies with all types of structural materials. In order to meet the current and future challenges and to incorporate worldwide best state‐of the‐art technological solutions, cooperation with external suppliers and strategic partners is essential. Increasingly decentralized engineering and manufacturing co‐operations – at an international level – lead to challenging aircraft program and technology management. Therefore, Airbus is intensifying its cooperation with research facilities, equipment, material and structure suppliers based on new Airbus ‐ Supplier cooperation philosophies. |
