Khalifa University of Science and Technology (KU) and Boeing announced Wednesday that they have installed a flight simulator to support students studying aerospace engineering at the University.
Since 2020, Boeing has been supporting the University’s Aerospace Engineering curriculum to foster opportunities for aspiring engineers and scientists in the UAE.
Dr. Arif Sultan Al Hammadi, Executive Vice-President of Khalifa University, said: “This reflects our shared commitment to shaping the future of aviation, pushing the boundaries of innovation, and conducting groundbreaking research in aerospace engineering. By leveraging Boeing's knowledge and expertise, Khalifa University offers students an opportunity to develop their skills and help transform the aviation and aerospace industry, not only in the UAE but also globally.”
Kuljit Ghata-Aura, Boeing President in the Middle East, Türkiye and Africa, said: “Our partnership with Khalifa University underlines our commitment to developing education and training which will meet the future needs of the aerospace industry in the UAE. We're proud to support the installation of this new flight simulator, providing students with a hands-on experience that will enrich their learning and support student research projects.”
The educational flight simulator, a pivotal laboratory facility at Khalifa University’s Aerospace Engineering department, serves as both a familiarisation tool for junior undergraduate students and a study and research facility for senior undergraduate and postgraduate students.
Students get to learn to use the standard academic equations, while the latest commercial aircraft controls, enhancing their understanding of aircraft operation, avionics, and flight software, have a built-in editor for entering aerodynamic geometry and airfoil data dynamics and flight safety.
With support from Boeing, Khalifa University opened a 3D-printing composite materials facility and installed other equipment to enhance students' experience. Furthermore, Boeing funds students' senior design projects and engagements to attract the best talent to study aerospace engineering at Khalifa University.
Last week, Khalifa University of Science and Technology and the China National Aero-Technology Import and Export Corporation (CATIC) announced they have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish a ‘CATIC-KU Joint Lab’ and facilitate talent exchange of researchers and students.
The MoU was signed by, Dr. Arif Sultan Al Hammadi, Executive Vice-President, Khalifa University, and Wang Donghua, Managing Director of Sales Division, CATIC, in the presence of Quan Xin, Senior Project Manager, Fiona, Senior Project Manager, and Zhang Jinyu, Representative, CATIC Gulf Office. The MoU will also assess the viability and feasibility of jointly addressing opportunities in areas related to aerospace technology, as well as support related educational programs.
The CATIC-KU Joint Lab will donate lab equipment to support student and faculty research in aerospace-related projects, as well as jointly sponsor international student competitions in areas connected with aerospace. It will also support student-oriented project activities, including Senior Design Projects (SDPs).
In addition, the joint lab will enable an industrial internship and exchange program at the CATIC facility in China for Khalifa University’s undergraduate and postgraduate students. Similarly, faculty and researchers from Khalifa University will have access to the CATIC facility to conduct joint research.
Moreover, a number of emerging technical challenges in aerospace sectors will also be addressed jointly through the CATIC-KU Working Group, which will comprise faculty and researchers from Khalifa University and researchers from CATIC. Current areas of research interest include AI-based air vehicle systems, advanced aero-structures and materials, and innovative sensing and detection.
