The EXAELIA project is a major European initiative aimed at making air travel cleaner and more efficient by 2050. Funded by the Horizon Europe programme, it focuses on developing innovative aircraft designs, such as hydrogen-powered and blended wing body (BWB) configurations, that have the potential to significantly reduce emissions on long-distance flights. To achieve this, the project aims to develop flying test platforms that allow new technologies to be tested safely and under real-world conditions. These testbeds are essential for addressing engineering challenges that cannot be fully solved through computer simulations or ground testing alone. In addition to the technical development, EXAELIA also includes work on business models, operational planning, and roadmaps to help bring these aircraft into future commercial use.
As a member of the EXAELIA consortium, the University of Patras plays a key role in supporting the project’s objectives through the collaboration of two closely linked laboratories: the IDEAS Group and the LTSM Laboratory. Under the supervision of Professor Spiros Pantelakis, Angelos Filippatos, and George Lampeas, our teams contribute engineering expertise focused on the design, analysis, and future application of the flying test platforms. We use advanced tools and methodologies to study the performance of these aircraft and help shape detailed plans for upcoming testing phases. This collaboration within the University of Patras highlights how strong academic research partnerships can drive innovation and support Europe’s transition to more sustainable aviation.
