In January, an AIAA delegation traveled across Germany to strengthen institutional partnerships, engage with student branches, and connect with organizations shaping the future of aerospace innovation. The three-day visit spanned Hamburg, Stuttgart, and Munich, underscoring the value of collaboration across industry, academia, and the next generation of aerospace leaders.
The visit began in Hamburg with an in-depth tour of Lufthansa Technik, where the delegation explored the company’s extensive Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) operations. The team gained insight into the extraordinary precision, coordination, and cross-department collaboration required to maintain modern aircraft systems. Engine specialists led demonstrations of advanced inspection processes, including fatigue crack analysis, and highlighted how repairing components is often more economical and sustainable than outright replacement. Sophisticated test benches, diagnostic systems, and repair technologies showcased the technical excellence underpinning Lufthansa Technik’s global reputation.
Later that day, the delegation visited the ZAL Center of Applied Aeronautical Research, one of Europe’s major hubs for aviation R&D. There, AIAA met with Roland Gerhards, CEO of ZAL and President of DGLR, and the two organizations formally signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). The agreement marks the beginning of a significant collaboration aimed at strengthening transatlantic cooperation in research, technology development, and student engagement. The delegation also met with experts from DLR, who shared insights into ongoing work in air traffic management, including research on future airspace operations and more efficient traffic flow strategies.
Another highlight was a discussion with ProTechnicale, a Hamburg-based organization dedicated to supporting young women preparing to enter university STEM programs. Its holistic approach, combining technical education, mentoring, and international exposure, closely aligns with AIAA’s efforts to broaden participation in aerospace fields.
On the second day, the delegation traveled to Stuttgart to meet with students and faculty at the University of Stuttgart, home to an AIAA student branch. The visit included a tour of the Institute of Aircraft Propulsion Systems (ILA), where students and researchers develop and test advanced aviation propulsion technologies. The group viewed several facilities, including engine test stands supporting research into next-generation, more sustainable propulsion concepts. The delegation also met the HyEnD student rocketry team, winners of the 2025 European Rocketry Challenge. Team members shared insights from their successful launch campaign and discussed ongoing development efforts as they continue to push the boundaries of student-led high-power rocketry in Europe.
During the Stuttgart visit, AIAA CEO Clay Mowry delivered a talk on the rapid evolution of the global space sector, from the rise of the commercial space economy and low Earth orbit destinations to future missions to the moon and Mars. He emphasized the importance for students and young professionals to prepare for an industry defined by opportunity, entrepreneurship, and technological disruption—and highlighted how engagement with the AIAA community can help build the skills and knowledge needed to meet the expectations of a changing space market.
The delegation concluded its visit in Munich with a meeting at The Exploration Company, one of Europe’s most dynamic emerging space enterprises. Hosted by CEO Hélène Huby, the team toured the facility where the NYX capsule, a modular, reusable spacecraft designed for cargo missions, is under development. The visit provided an inside look at Europe’s efforts to build independent, commercially competitive space transportation capabilities.
• Related reading: AIAA Strengthens International Engagement
