The areas covered by the strategic research project will include determining the technical and commercial viability of a future zero-carbon emission aircraft design; technology and industrialisation roadmaps; and assessments of the sustainability issues, UK industrial capability, and the market and economic aspects. The aim is for FlyZero to support the UK aerospace sector in capitalising on the future sustainable aviation market.
Dr Webber had this to say regarding her secondment to the project:
“I am very excited to have the opportunity to support the FlyZero team in their goal to help UK aerospace develop a zero-carbon emission aircraft by 2030. This is an ambitious target, and it will great to be part of the initial phase of the project, working with people from across the whole UK aerospace industry to help determine the aircraft technical and commercial viability and the technology and industrial roadmaps”.
FlyZero Project Director Chris Gear added:
“FlyZero has assembled a world-class team of experts reflecting the diverse knowledge and capability we have across the UK in aerospace, technology and beyond. We are delighted to welcome Helen on secondment from Reaction Engines which represents another boost in the team’s potential on our mission to revolutionise the future of sustainable aviation.”
Dr Webber recently led the Reaction Engines HTX team that validated the SABRE precooler at temperatures representative of Mach 5. A feat for which she was recognised by both the Royal Aeronautical Society and the Royal Academy of Engineering with the Sir Ralph Robins Medal and the Colin Campbell Mitchell Award respectively.
In addition to Dr Webber’s secondment, Reaction Engines has signed up to the FlyZero Contribution Agreement which allows the Company to share expertise on key technologies which will be shared within the FlyZero project team itself and with the wider aerospace community to foster collaboration and expedite progress on key initiatives.
Reaction Engines recognises that Climate Change is an urgent global challenge and is committed to developing sustainable technologies that support the Government’s net-zero objectives. From our pioneering work in hydrogen fuelled vehicles and advanced propulsion systems for both space access and hypersonic aircraft, and more recently ammonia fuelled systems, to our innovative thermal management solutions for electric vehicles, we are adapting the revolutionary technology developed under the SABRE technology programme for a more sustainable world. The ATI’s FlyZero project will enable the UK to lead a revolution in zero-carbon emission air travel and we are excited to play a part in this critical and far-reaching project.
If you would like to hear more about the FlyZero project and find out how you can get involved, the project team are hosting a free-to-attend webinar on 5th May. The FlyZero leadership team will also be participating in a Q&A session during this webinar. You can register to attend here.
Dr Helen Webber – Chief Project Engineer
