Concordia University will play a significant role in the first Annual Forum of the Advanced Air Mobility Institute on **November 27, 2023**, at the **YMX Innovation Centre** in Mirabel, Canada. This event aims to unite experts from industry, academia, and government to explore the potential of drones and electric aircraft in transforming transportation in Quebec and beyond.
Advanced air mobility encompasses innovative aircraft technologies designed to transport people and goods more efficiently and sustainably. These advancements could facilitate emergency deliveries, regional transport, and traffic monitoring, thereby alleviating congestion and reducing emissions in both urban and remote areas.
Driving Innovation in Aviation
Established in **2024** by the **SDG Innovation Network** with the support of **ADM Aéroports de Montréal**, the Advanced Air Mobility Institute seeks to foster collaboration among researchers and professionals across Quebec. Co-led by **Jean Marc Frayret**, a representative from **Polytechnique Montréal**, and **Carole El Ayoubi**, associate director of the **Concordia Institute for Aerospace Design and Innovation (CIADI)** and senior lecturer at the **Gina Cody School of Engineering and Computer Science**, the institute aims to advance sustainable aviation practices. Frayret will oversee research initiatives while El Ayoubi will focus on training.
“This forum provides an opportunity to reflect collectively on how Quebec can develop advanced air mobility in a responsible way,” said El Ayoubi. “Concordia’s contribution focuses on training and collaboration, ensuring that students and partners can work together on technologies that serve people and the environment.”
The forum will feature speakers from notable organizations including the **International Civil Aviation Organization**, **NAV Canada**, **Jaunt Air Mobility**, **Laflamme Aero**, **EXO Tactik**, and **Hydro Québec**. These industry leaders will share insights on integrating drone and electric aviation technologies into everyday life. Additionally, a student showcase will highlight innovative ideas from emerging researchers in the field.
Strengthening Partnerships for Future Mobility
The **SDG Innovation Network** serves as a crucial alliance for research and training, promoting collaboration between universities and industries to speed up innovation in sustainable manufacturing, digital transformation, and intelligent mobility. The YMX Innovation Centre acts as a hub for research and development, fostering partnerships across industry, government, academia, and students to enhance aerospace and mobility innovation. Located within the **International Aerocity of Mirabel**, this zone combines manufacturing, research, cargo operations, and training in aviation and mobility.
Concordia University is also actively involved in another initiative known as the **Collaborative Innovation Centre in Aerospace and Mobility (CCIAM)**, set to be established in Montreal’s **Saint Laurent** borough. This centre aims to unite universities and industry partners to promote research, innovation, and sustainable practices within the aerospace sector.
As the demand for advanced air mobility solutions grows, events like the Annual Forum of the Advanced Air Mobility Institute will be pivotal in shaping the future of transportation, making it more sustainable and efficient for communities across Canada and beyond.
