Waterloo launches Canada’s first research institute for sustainable aeronautics

Tuesday, October 5, 2021

A new institute at the University of Waterloo is aiming to shape the future of the aeronautics industry at a pivotal moment for the sector and the world’s climate.

The Waterloo Institute for Sustainable Aeronautics (WISA), the first of its kind in Canada to take on the challenge of making air transport sustainable, will combine the work of 50 researchers from each of the university’s faculties, and will be guided by an advisory committee that includes astronaut Chris Hadfield.

A plane just after takeoff

Suzanne Kearns, director of WISA, said the institute is being created as the effects of flying come under increased scrutiny around the world.

“More attention has put more pressure on policymakers and industry leaders to act,” Kearns said. “Reducing carbon emissions is a main pillar of the kind of sustainability research WISA will be exploring. Everything from e-planes, to aerodynamics, to using applied mathematics to optimize routes, all contribute to lowering emissions.”

Read more about the Waterloo Institute for Sustainable Aeronautics:

Waterloo launches Canada’s first research institute for sustainable aeronautics - New institute aims to shape the future of the aeronautics industry by making air transport sustainable

Air travel isn’t going anywhere, so Waterloo is making it sustainable - From electric planes, optimized routes, and social equity, the new Waterloo Institute of Sustainable Aeronautics is leading the charge for a cleaner, greener, durable air transport sector.

Aviation research takes off virtually on campus - New flight simulator will prioritize research questions from across campus.

Reducing human error for passenger safety - Interdisciplinary research members of Waterloo’s new Institute for Sustainable Aeronautics will examine pilot error to strengthen training practices.