Under the agreement, Zal and Criaq will collaborate on key enabling technologies – particularly in the areas of advanced digital solutions such as artificial intelligence, and future-oriented propulsion systems aimed at improving the sustainability of aviation. The focus lies on fostering innovation and promoting the international exchange of expertise across institutional and national boundaries.

The partnership builds on existing agreements and previous collaborations between Zal and Criaq. Past successful joint projects include the “Lightweight Bionic Aircraft Interior” in the field of 3D printing, and “New Acoustic Insulation meta-material Technology for Aerospace” in the field of acoustics.

“Criaq is a strong partner with whom we’ve already had successful collaborations. We look forward to tackling new topics together and advancing aviation innovations in fields such as digital and propulsion technologies and applications,” says Roland Gerhards, CEO of Zal Center of Applied Aeronautical Research in Hamburg, Germany.

“Zal is a world-class organization, and we are very proud to restate our commitment to collaborate further for the benefit of our research and innovation ecosystems,” says Guillaume Côté, CEO of Criaq, Consortium for Research and Innovation in Aerospace in Quebec, Canada.

Zal’s research focuses on the processing of fibre-composite materials, among other topics. Several Criaq projects also include composites.

Zal Center of Applied Aeronautical Research
Zal is at the forefront of shaping the future of civil aviation. Covering more than 34,000 square metres, Zal brings together around 35 industry and research partners under one roof – including Airbus, Lufthansa Technik, and the German Aerospace Center (DLR). Some 800 researchers collaborate on topics such as digital cabins, robotics, and automation, while the in-house fuel cell lab provides optimal conditions to drive sustainability in aviation.

Criaq Consortium for Research and Innovation in Aerospace in Quebec
Created in 2002, the Consortium for Research and Innovation in Aerospace in Quebec (Criaq) is a unique model of collaborative aerospace research involving companies of all sizes, universities, and research centers. Its mission is to enhance the competitiveness of the aerospace industry by stimulating technological innovation and corporate engagement through collaborative R&D. Criaq also aims to develop a new generation of innovators to reinforce Quebec’s technological leadership in cutting-edge aerospace applications: digital aviation, advanced air mobility, and sustainable aerospace.