The Society of Flight Test Engineers European Chapter has released the agenda for its annual symposium next month.
The highly regarded technical conference will take place at the Grand Hotel International in Prague, Czech Republic, on June 4-5 and is followed by a tour of the facilities of Aero Vodochody on June 6 for attendees.
“This year’s program reflects a fundamental shift in how the industry approaches flight testing,” said a spokesperson for the event. “With multiple sessions dedicated to AI integration, we’re seeing some of the most significant technological evolution in decades.”
The opening day will feature a keynote address from Aero Vodochody representatives, followed by a session on AI applications led by Jim Fawcett from Airbus. Notable speakers include Kennedy Leedham from the Royal Air Force, who will present a proof of concept for onboard AI systems, and Giovanni de Giorgio from Leonardo Helicopter Division, showcasing neural network applications in helicopter performance prediction.
Ryan Bumgardner from NLR/US Air Force will discuss the increasingly critical role of off-board risk reduction in autonomous systems, a presentation already generating considerable industry attention.
There will be a view from the commercial aviation sector from Nick Caccavo and Ferran Pelaez from Airbus, offering insights into flight testing approaches at major manufacturers. Meanwhile Boeing’s Brian Jones and Scott Sullivan will share lessons learned in human factors certification.
Day two shifts focus to electric propulsion systems, with Henk Jentink from NLR presenting on distributed electric propulsion testing. Military applications will be highlighted by Björn Thorsélius from SAAB, discussing the Gripen E weapons system and AI integration in flight testing.
“The industry is moving toward electrification and AI-driven systems,” said an industry analyst. “This symposium offers a rare glimpse into how major aerospace players are navigating these transitions.”
Other extras for Symposium attendees include welcome drinks, a campfire session and a symposium dinner.
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The full agenda is available here.
