Despite the challenges caused by COVID-19, a report published by Protolabs reveals that majority of Aerospace companies, who took part in the survey, are still set to invest in 'green opportunities'. It also highlights that 'a greener aerospace sector is key for the industry to bounce back'.
The Protolabs’ Horizon Shift report, which involved aerospace business leaders from across Europe, reveals that 77% expect environmental credibility to become a key differentiator moving forward. 72% indicate that new greener materials will be the driving force in lowering emissions for flying.
On top of that, 65% believe investment in innovation that reduces emissions should continue despite the pandemic, with 42% now transforming their supply chains as part of the innovation drive to cut down CO2 output.
The latest survey, which was conducted as a follow-up to an initial report of 325 executives taken in February and March, presents a unique insight into the sector, particularly in regard to what has changed as a result of the pandemic.
In addition to environmental improvements, companies are also looking for Government support and stimulus packages to help them create new revenue streams, embed innovation in the supply chain and bring new products to market swiftly.
39% believe that there needs to be an immediate investment in infrastructure, whilst 33% are calling on more supportive fiscal policy, such as tax breaks or R&D grants.
“The two crises of climate change and the Covid-19 lockdowns are changing the face of the aerospace industry,” explained Bjoern Klaas, Vice President and Managing Director of Protolabs Europe, the world’s fastest digital manufacturer of custom prototypes and low-volume production parts.
“New types of aircraft, business models and supply chains will emerge. Survival is not going to be about a fast transition, but about building up resilience for the long-term and, part of that, is producing the next generation of aircraft: improved aerodynamics, lighter, more fuel-efficient and less polluting.”
“91% of business leaders admit that cutting CO2 is having some form of impact on how they run their companies and, the good news for the European aerospace sector, is that it appears they’ve decided to embrace the pressure by transforming supply chains and developing new technologies and materials.”
“Earlier this year, Airbus reconfirmed its commitment to decarbonisation and leading the development of a more sustainable global aerospace industry - this is a commitment that will filter through its supply chain.”
Environmental compliance is at the top of the list for aerospace companies over the next two years, followed by inflexibility/long supply chain delays (69%) and length of certification process (60%).
The research found that firms expect to move from using advanced manufacturing techniques in order to enhance productivity and output to using them to create a more flexible product range (63%) and deliver parts/aircraft quicker (58%).
Bjoern concluded: “Companies that are experiencing financial pressures in the aftermath of Covid-19 are now focusing on quick wins and speed to market. One way to plan ahead is to create additional revenue streams, but this requires supply chain optimisation and increased speed to market.
“In the longer-term, our survey shows that they will look to hire talent, implement new technologies, use new materials and expand their manufacturing capabilities. They might see some unexpected positive outcomes from the crisis: flexibility from upgraded manufacturing supply chains and processes giving the ability to cater to consumer and social pressures with more environmentally friendly aircraft.”
For further information or download the second part of the Horizons Shift report, please visit www.protolabs.co.uk