About the SESAR Innovation Days

The SESAR Innovation Days (SIDs) are the main vehicle for SESAR Joint Undertaking to share progress and disseminate exploratory research results. Unlike other scientific events in air traffic management (ATM) research, the SIDs focus explicitly on exploratory research. Organised annually since 2011, the SIDS have become a landmark event in the European aviation research calendar. The SIDs is further strengthened with the support of Engage, the SESAR knowledge transfer network.

Given the current situation with Covid-19 and the associated impact on travel and gatherings, the 2021 edition of the SIDs took place online from 7-9 December. Despite taking place in a virtual format, the SIDs was a valuable event, showcasing the latest research and innovation and reflecting Europe’s commitment to the long-term sustainability of the aviation industry, as well as its recovery from the Covid-19 crisis.

The SIDs are based on an open call soliciting contributions from the ATM research community. Exhibitions and poster, keynotes and virtual networking events provided further opportunities to learn about interesting projects and meet like-minded researchers.

Once again, this year’s SIDs hosted the annual Young Scientist Award, recognising young scientists, who have demonstrated excellence in ATM and aviation-related research fields.