Construction is underway on a new state of the art digital aviation research facility at Cranfield University in Bedfordshire.

The £65 million Digital Aviation Research and Technology Centre (DARTeC) will develop ways for aircraft to monitor, test and upgrade their own systems and structures, as well as looking at the future of the passenger experience.

Professor Graham Braithwaite at Cranfield University said: "Digital Aviation Research and Technology Centre (DARTeC) will be a flagship research facility that will help unlock the potential of digital aviation. Working with our partners in DARTeC, we are looking to develop new digital solutions to tackle the challenges of over-capacity in both airports and airspace, develop improved passenger experiences and create more sustainable air travel."

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Built environment consultancy Curtins is supporting the development, providing structural, civil and geo-environmental services.

Associate Matt Woodhall, who is leading the design of the project from Curtins' Birmingham office, said: "This project represents an important investment at Cranfield University, ensuring that it is a leading centre for aviation technology. We are delighted to be providing world-class facilities that will directly and positively impact the aviation industry as we move towards a more automated future.

"The structure of this new research centre is a really interesting structure with a truly unique roof design. The canopy produced needs to be able to house a full-size aircraft, as well as being a functional and cutting edge research facility."

The building is expected to be completed next year, and is scheduled to open in 2020.

(CM/MH)