First Internal Workshop on Flying Testbed Design
On 6 May 2025, the EXAELIA project successfully conducted its first internal workshop, drawing participation from 85 representatives across all partner organisations—a highly encouraging turnout that exceeded expectations.
The workshop, held virtually, focused on the design of Flying Testbeds (FTBs) and was co-organised by Cranfield University, the University of Stuttgart, NLR – Netherlands Aerospace Centre, and EASN – Technology Innovation Services.
The agenda featured a series of expert-led presentations offering valuable insights and early findings on key topics related to experimental aircraft and testbed development:
- The history and purpose of Flying Testbeds – NLR
- Scale aerodynamics in Blended Wing Body (BWB) configurations – Cranfield University
- Aeroelastic considerations for Truss-Braced Wing (TAW) testbeds – NLR
- Donor aircraft selection and testbed architecture – Cranfield University
- Next-generation powertrain testbed requirements – University of Stuttgart
- Legal framework and certification aspects – Cranfield University
The session concluded with an open discussion, providing a platform for knowledge exchange and laying the groundwork for continued collaboration on innovative testbed concepts within EXAELIA.
Stay tuned for more updates as the project progresses
