This is one reason we would like to see more users involved in FP5 projects - and, with regard to aircraft operations, particularly the airlines. In the end, we expect that DG XII projects should develop, validate and test different options, which should then succeed on the market and contribute to ATM policy. This involves work on engines, aerodynamics and weight, and constant progress is being made. However, most research is evolutionary - even though it can lead to dramatic results. This might not be so visible as new forms of wing on an Airbus but marks significant progress.
Environmental factors are important in themselves, but also from a competition point of view.
Traditionally this sector, which is very structured, has not been over-friendly to SMEs. However, there are an awful lot of suppliers in the aeronautics supply chain - about 78,000 companies are involved in the EU aerospace industry. And 400 of the main 600 companies are SMEs. This is a real challenge and we are taking a very proactive stance. A number of actions have been launched, including workshops and information sessions, to raise awareness amongst the various actors.