Lead researcher

Lead researcher

Prof. Marina Efthymiou
Prof. Marina Efthymiou, Professor of Aviation Management

Supporting aviation’s transition to net-zero through research, policy engagement and industry collaboration. 

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. 

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 evidence-based 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 Hub contributes to national and international initiatives supporting aviation sustainability through funded research projects, policy engagement and collaboration with aviation stakeholders.

We work with industry, regulators and public institutions to develop practical pathways towards aviation decarbonisation. The Group has formal collaborations (Memoranda of Understanding) with the Irish Aviation Authority, Fingal County Council and daa.

We welcome collaboration with industry partners, policymakers and researchers interested in sustainable aviation research and innovation.

Contact: marina.efthymiou@dcu.ie 

Research Themes

  • Environmental Sustainability: Research examining aviation’s environmental performance across the full air transport system, including decarbonisation pathways, sustainable aviation fuel deployment, energy efficiency, noise and local environmental impacts, resource use and environmental governance supporting sustainable sector development.

  • Economic Sustainability: Research examining the economics of aviation and the sector’s long-term viability, including airline and airport business models, air cargo development, the economic contribution of aviation, aircraft leasing and financing, and the economic implications of sustainability and regulatory transition.

  • Social Sustainability: Research addressing the societal impacts of aviation, including workforce transition, regional connectivity and inclusive access to air transport. The Hub promotes equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI), education and skills development for sustainable aviation, and supports capacity building and sustainable air transport development in the Global South.

Selected Projects

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