More Environmentally Friendly Aeronautical Structures
Daher has long integrated environmental concerns into its R&D roadmap: innovating for more responsible aviation by developing new, more efficient manufacturing models and processes.
By focusing on reducing the weight of aerostructure and engine components, improving aerodynamic performance, and enhancing the surface quality of flying products, Daher aims to actively contribute to lowering aviation-related emissions.
Since 2009, Daher’s R&D department has been committed to innovation in composite materials, enabling lighter components and improved energy efficiency for aircraft. These materials are used to reduce the weight of parts on Daher’s own TBM and Kodiak aircraft, as well as on the aerostructures of its clients’ aircraft—helping replace traditional metal parts in programs such as the Airbus A320 and Boeing 737.
This R&D strategy continues through various research initiatives, notably within the framework of CORAC (French Civil Aviation Research Council) projects, which support innovation for cleaner aviation.
In Action
Lightweighting
Daher continues its weight-reduction initiatives through the use of composite materials and additive manufacturing. On several TBM components, these innovations have significantly reduced part weight and consequently their environmental impact during operation.
- Air intake, cowling, engine frame: 10% weight reduction using composite materials
- NACA duct and distributor: 50% weight reduction through plastic additive manufacturing
- Rear fuselage: 15% weight reduction with composite materials
- Engine environment: 50% weight reduction using plastic additive manufacturing
Composite Materials
The Group now dedicates at least 50% of its R&D budget to composites in order to develop the aerostructures of tomorrow.
For example, Daher is involved in the development of a thermoplastic welded wing rib that delivers a 22% weight reduction compared with an aluminum solution, while also improving environmental performance throughout the product life cycle.
The Shap’in techcenter plays a central role in this strategy by supporting the development of new technologies and manufacturing processes.
Eco-design
In partnership with the IPC Technical Center, Daher uses a life cycle analysis software (C3R Impact) to eco-design its products.
The C3R Impact tool enables life-cycle assessment to be integrated into product development and helps evaluate the environmental impact of technical solutions from the earliest design stages.
Circular Economy
Reducing the environmental footprint of aircraft also requires making better use of materials. Daher is developing solutions for the reuse and recycling of composite materials, notably through the recovery and valorization of thermoplastic production offcuts from its Nantes facility, which are transformed into raw material for the manufacture of new aeronautical components.
Our Ambition
Daher is committed to becoming a pioneer in lightweighting and decarbonizing aeronautical structures. Its goals include:
- By 2027: Achieve technological maturity of subsystems to participate in preparatory programs for future short- and medium-haul aircraft (SMR).
- By 2035: Reach industrial maturity of products and subassemblies to become a key player in SMR and market zero-waste products.
- By 2050: Achieve Net Zero Carbon with highly decarbonized Daher aircraft offering innovative solutions.
