Centre for Research in Sustainable Aviation (CRSA)
"We believe that the [UTIAS Sustainable Aviation] program, designed to combine traditional education with research projects and industrial internships, will produce a new generation of highly qualified engineers, who will provide insight, innovation and talent to develop solutions addressing the environmental impact of aviation."
– Walter Di Bartolomeo, Vice President, Engineering, Pratt & Whitney Canada.
The Centre for Research in Sustainable Aviation (CRSA) was established in 2013 to address the need for scientists and engineers with the skills to develop future generations of environmentally sustainable aircraft. The CRSA provides a uniquely comprehensive education in all elements of aviation and the environment, including engineering, scientific, economic, political, and legal aspects, with particular emphasis on technologies that reduce noise and emissions.
The goals of the UTIAS programs in Sustainable Aviation are to educate a new generation of scientists and engineers with the interdisciplinary skills to contribute to sustainable aviation and, simultaneously, to perform world-leading research into the technologies necessary to make aircraft and engines that are environmentally friendly.
A key educational component of the Centre is the course AER1315 Sustainable Aviation. This is a required course for students who wish to obtain a Certificate of Emphasis in Sustainable Aviation.
Much of the aeronautics research conducted at UTIAS is aimed at improving the environmental sustainability of aviation. This includes research on alternative fuels, such as biofuels and hydrogen, contrails, noise reduction for landing gear and high-lift systems. advanced aerodynamic concepts for drag reduction, and unconventional aircraft configurations with improved energy efficiency.
Finally, the Centre offers the biannual UTIAS International Workshop on Aviation and Climate Change. This invitation-only workshop, which is open to all UTIAS students, brings together world-leading experts in areas related to aviation and climate change, including aircraft design, engine design, alternative fuels, and atmospheric science. You can find more information about past workshops, including many presentations on our page.
Please visit admissions to learn about the application process. If you wish to participate in the UTIAS Sustainable Aviation programs, please indicate this in your statement of intent.
"My experience at UTIAS has not only helped me significantly in my own research by providing the necessary background in aviation, but has instilled a passion to address the industry's future challenges relating to sustainability. Aside from the proximity to cutting edge research, being a part of the Sustainable Aviation Program allows access to the community-like setting of the UTIAS campus and provides opportunities for professional development."
– Katherine Rispoli, M.A.Sc. Graduate, Civil Engineering, CREATE Trainee in Sustainable Aviation, University of Toronto
"It is our belief that students with the breadth of expertise covered by the [UTIAS Sustainable Aviation] program will be in great demand in the aerospace industry."
– Farzad Mokhtarian, Manager, Advanced Aerodynamics, Bombardier Aerospace