Korea Aerospace University announced the successful conclusion of the jointly organized 2024 Airbus 101 International Field Trip program with Airbus Korea from Jan. 20 to 23, 2025. The program included a visit to Airbus headquarters in Toulouse, France as well as tours of ENAC (École nationale de l’aviation civile; National School of Civil Aviation, France) and ISAE-SUPAERO (Institut supérieur de l’aéronautique et de l’espace; Higher Institute of Aeronautics and Space), providing students with a valuable opportunity to experience the global aerospace industry firsthand.

Visit to Airbus headquarters: experiencing the frontline of the aviation industry

During the first two days of the field trip program, students visited Airbus headquarters, where they had the opportunity to explore aircraft manufacturing and research facilities firsthand. On Mon, Jan. 20, the top three teams from the 2024 Airbus 101 Idea Competition presented their ideas to Airbus e x e cutives, receiving feedback and discussing the feasibility and potential impact of their innovations on the aviation industry. In a subsequent lecture, students gained insights into Airbus’s commercial strategies and innovative technologies, learning about the latest trends in the aviation sector.

The visit continued with a tour of the Airspace Customer Showroom, where students explored the interiors of Airbus’s flagship aircraft and experienced how cabin designs are tailored to customer needs. At the French aeronautical nuseum Aeroscopia, they viewed historic aircraft, including the iconic Concorde, gaining a comprehensive understanding of the evolution of the aviation industry.

On Tue, Jan. 21, students visited the A350 Final Assembly Line (FAL), where they observed the aircraft manufacturing process up close. They learned about the advanced engineering and meticulous design strategies that enhance aircraft safety and efficiency. Seeing aircraft under construction, they witnessed firsthand how aviation is a result of cutting-edge engineering and precision technology rather than mere assembly.

Visit to ENAC & ISAE-SUPAERO: building a global aerospace network

From Wed, Jan. 22 to Thu, Jan. 23, students visited ENAC and ISAE-SUPAERO to gain firsthand insight into aerospace engineering education in France. As two of the world’s leading aerospace institutions, these universities provided a valuable opportunity to experience their learning and training environments while understanding their education systems and curricula.

During the visit to ENAC, students explored how the aviation traffic management and pilot training programs are closely integrated with the industry. They observed pilot training using advanced simulation equipment and air traffic control exercises, gaining an appreciation for the seamless combination of theory and practical application in aviation education.

At ISAE-SUPAERO, students were introduced to cutting-edge research and projects in artificial intelligence, eco-friendly aircraft, drones, and space exploration—key areas driving the future of the aerospace industry. Touring state-of-the-art laboratories and research facilities, they witnessed how students engage in hands-on learning and research in close connection with real-world industry needs.

This visit allowed students to recognize that aerospace education in France extends beyond theoretical learning to practical, research-oriented training. They gained a broader perspective on global aerospace education methods and their impact on industry development.

A stepping stone to becoming global aerospace leaders

More than just a study tour, this overseas exploration provided students with a firsthand experience of the global aerospace industry and a chance to build international networks. By interacting with industry experts, they deepened their understanding of real-world aerospace applications and were inspired by the latest technological advancements and industry trends.

One participant shared, “Seeing the latest aircraft manufacturing processes and innovations in the global aerospace industry firsthand has strengthened my confidence in pursuing a future in this field. This experience also reaffirmed the importance of international collaboration.”

Students expressed deep gratitude to Korea Aerospace University and Airbus Korea for their unwavering support in providing such a valuable experience. This journey is expected to serve as a foundation for students to broaden their vision in aerospace and grow into future leaders who will drive the global aviation industry forward.