Research Programs for Transport Aircraft in Europe

The aim of the paper is to provide an insight into R&D activities devoted to transport aircraft which are undertaken by Research Establishments in those countries having a long tradition in Aeronautics and in particular in France and Germany. After a short description of European co-operation schemes some examples are given to illustrate major efforts spent to advanced tool developments, basic research and applied research with emphasis on fluid dynamics. It appears, that during the last two decades the link between Research Establishments and transport aircraft industry became closer and closer.