The Sustainable Aviation Hub leverages its world-class expertise, specialist researchers and a strong network of aerospace graduates and alumni, to drive the future of sustainable aviation. ‘Sustainable aviation’ refers to the development and operation of air transport systems that balance environmental, social, and economic objectives.

The global aviation industry faces a critical challenge: how to decarbonise air transport without compromising its role in enabling global trade, tourism, and connectivity. As aviation emissions continue to rise, the sector risks falling short of international climate targets, including the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 13 (Climate Action), SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). Despite growing pressure, the pathway to sustainable aviation remains fragmented and hindered by policy uncertainty, limited access to sustainable finance, insufficient investment in low-emission technologies such as sustainable aviation fuels (SAF), and a lack of integrated data-driven solutions tailored to the complexities of the aviation ecosystem.

The Sustainable Aviation Hub bridges the gap between research and industry, delivering innovative data-driven solutions that balance environmental responsibility, economic viability, and social equity. The Group’s commitment to advancing sustainability is rooted in DCU’s proven track record of producing industry leaders and transformative research, reinforcing our role as a driving force in shaping the next generation of aviation. 

The Group has formal collaborations (Memoranda of Understanding) with the Irish Aviation Authority, Fingal County Council and daa.