Cranfield University is one of Western Europe’s largest academic centres for strategic and applied research, development and design. It has many global networks, and is unique in its almost entirely postgraduate focus, having over 3000 students. It aims to be a leading national, European and international institution for the generation, dissemination and application of knowledge in engineering, applied science, manufacturing, management and medical science.

Since its foundation in 1946 Cranfield has been involved in all aspects of aeronautical research and has operated its own laboratory aircraft. The research has extended beyond engineering and into aircraft operations and the man-machine interface. Through such research, Cranfield has developed strong interests in aviation safety, risk and reliability. It is, therefore, in a unique position to contribute to the FLYSAFE programme.

In WP1, Cranfield University is engaged with operational assessments, including the aircraft accidents and incidents survey, and input to the traffic awareness specification. In WP3, our primary role involves traffic hazards: from analysis and specification to customisation and validation. WP5 includes a range of tasks associated with Intelligent Surveillance Systems. To conclude, Cranfield University will be actively involved in the evaluation of results and in the exploitation and dissemination activities.

Participation in FLYSAFE will extend the expertise of the School of Engineering into a new area of teaching and research that will complement its current range of activities. Few academic establishments work in these fields of interest and the development of a university based research group within Europe will be an important product of the programme.