Through Commitment to Quality Education, Airbus Inspires Next Generation at FIDAE

Airbus has been showcasing the most modern products innovations at FIDAE for more than 20 years. I have seen my share of exciting flight displays and participated in dozens of press conferences that make global and regional news. This year, I was even honored by FIDAE with the award "Leader of Aviation Community in Latin America."

But in spite of the many headlines and billboards featuring Airbus, nothing is more rewarding than hosting children and young adults at the show.

As part of our commitment to Quality Education -- one of the United National Sustainable Development Goals -- Airbus proudly sponsored the participation of a dozen engineering students from three Chilean universities at the IATA Wings of Change conference held concurrently during FIDAE. After the conference, we hosted that same group at our Airbus Chalet for lunch with fellow alumni now working at Airbus Helicopters. It was thrilling to see them tour the A350-900, A400M and several Airbus helicopters in static display, as well as engage with Airbus pilots, technicians and marketing analysts.

Airbus has taken pride in investing in education and regularly working with academic institutions around the world to develop future talent. Through our ongoing Responsibility and Sustainability efforts, Airbus continuously develops initiatives that inspire and empower children and young adults through aerospace. We invest in youth engagement initiatives and apprenticeship programmes to inspire both boys and girls to focus on science and technology studies.

Two examples of our passion for education are the Airbus Foundation's 'Little Engineer' and Flying Challenge initiatives. The 'Little Engineer,' which has already reached more than 2,000 students in Africa and the Middle East, is dedicated to encouraging young people to explore STEM subjects through engaging robotic-based aviation and hands-on workshops. With locations across Europe, China and the US, the 'Flying Challenge' programme has already inspired more than 2,000 students worldwide. Developed in partnership with the United Way and other local NGOs, the programme inspires young people to continue their education, find their professional vocation and realize their dreams through mentoring with Airbus employee volunteers.  Both the 'Little Engineer' and 'Flying Challenge' will debut in our region very soon.

Rafael Alonso is President of Airbus Latin America and Caribbean. With more than three decades in aviation, Rafael has spent most of his career promoting the industry, its evolution and influence throughout Latin America and the Caribbean.