Concordia will take part in the first Annual Forum of the Advanced Air Mobility Institute on November 27 at the YMX Innovation Centre, part of the International Aerocity of Mirabel.
The event will bring together experts from industry, academia and government to discuss how drones and electric aircraft could help transform transportation in Quebec and beyond.
Advanced air mobility refers to the use of new types of aircraft, such as drones and small electric planes, to move people and goods more efficiently and sustainably. These technologies could one day support tasks like emergency deliveries, regional transport or traffic monitoring, helping reduce congestion and emissions in cities and remote areas.
Toward innovation in aviation
Founded in 2024 by the SDG Innovation Network with the support of ADM Aéroports de Montréal, the Advanced Air Mobility institute joins researchers and professionals from across Quebec to advance sustainable and intelligent aviation. It is co-led by Jean Marc Frayret of 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's Department of Mechanical, Industrial and Aerospace engineering. Frayret will be in charge of research, and El Ayoubi will lead training.
"This forum provides an opportunity to reflect collectively on how Quebec can develop advanced air mobility in a responsible way," says 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."
Speakers from the International Civil Aviation Organization, NAV Canada, Jaunt Air Mobility, Laflamme Aero, EXO Tactik and Hydro Québec will share their perspectives on integrating drones and electric aviation technologies into society. A student showcase will also feature new ideas from emerging researchers.
About the partners
The SDG Innovation Network is a research and training alliance that promotes collaboration between universities and industry to accelerate innovation in sustainable manufacturing, digital transformation and intelligent mobility.
The YMX Innovation Centre is a collaborative research and development hub that brings together industry, government, academia and students to advance aerospace and mobility innovation. It is located within the International Aerocity of Mirabel, a dedicated aerospace and industrial zone that combines manufacturing, research, cargo operations and training in aviation and mobility.
Concordia is also involved in another Espace Aéro initiative, the future Collaborative Innovation Centre in Aerospace and Mobility (CCIAM) in Montreal's Saint Laurent borough. The centre will bring together universities and industry partners to advance research, innovation and sustainable practices in aerospace.
