What’s the future of flying and what concepts will take us there? Airbus Group’s presentation of E-Aircraft projects will be one of the key aspects at this year’s ILA Berlin Air Show from 20 to 25 May. The Group’s exhibition will be complemented by a display of the A400M airlifter and an event on air transportation in disaster relief operations. Airbus Group’s presence at ILA will be centered around its Pavilion in Chalet Row West.

Electric and hybrid propulsion systems are one of the main research fields within Airbus Group. The E-Fan, the first all-electric general aviation training aircraft, which successfully performed its first flight in March 2014, will be part of the flying display. It is exhibited together with the hybrid electric motor glider Diamond Aircraft DA36 E-Star 2 at the Airbus Group static display. Advanced models of the future E-Fan 2.0 and 4.0 will also be shown at the Airbus Group Pavilion. In addition, the Group will present its Flight Path Optimization technology which reduces energy consumption.

Airbus Group has been working together with Rolls-Royce on the E-Thrust project, a hybrid electric distributed propulsion system architecture. A model of this system will be exhibited at Airbus Group’s display at the ILA. The Group’s E-Aircraft research is strengthened by studies on superconducting materials and energy storage technologies. These technologies are demonstrated within the project representing the whole process from integrating batteries in aircraft to recharging and maintenance.

Moreover, Airbus Group Innovations, the corporate research and technology network of Airbus Group, and Airbus Defence and Space are showcasing the Quadcruiser, a hybrid unmanned aerial vehicle demonstrator. This technology demonstrator combines vertical take-off and landing capability with the speed of a fixed-wing aircraft and is powered by five electric motors.

In a special exhibition on 21 May, Airbus Group together with the Airbus Corporate Foundation and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies are explaining key requirements for successful humanitarian disaster relief missions. Highlighted are products and services for such operations. Furthermore, an A400M, Europe’s most modern airlifter will be on display.

From 21 to 25 May, students will be given the opportunity to discover the world of aerospace during talks with Airbus Group experts and in workshops, including discussions with members of the company’s top management.

About Airbus Group

Airbus Group is a global leader in aeronautics, space and related services. In 2013, the Group – comprising Airbus, Airbus Defence and Space and Airbus Helicopters – generated revenues of € 57.6 billion (restated) and employed a workforce of around 139,000 (restated).