Today, FMCI’s COO Wassim Derguech visited Kilcolgan Educate Together National School in Clarinbridge, Galway, to share insights into the transformative world of technology with a group of eager young minds. As a parent and a dedicated tech enthusiast, this experience was not only enriching but also a reminder of the incredible potential of nurturing the curiosity of the next generation.
Opening Eyes to Future Mobility
The session started with an exploration of technology and its versatility in shaping our day-to-day activities. With a particular emphasis on future mobility, Wassim delved into fascinating discussions about self-driving cars and drones. The prospect of cars autonomously navigating the streets, drones revolutionizing our interaction, and air taxis becoming one of our future means of transport left students intrigued and visibly engaged.
Hands-On AI Demo: Navigating Obstacles with Technology
A live AI demonstration followed, showcasing how this technology can be harnessed for object detection. Students witnessed firsthand how a camera and an AI application could identify obstacles on the road or in the sky for, enhancing road safety and accident prevention. The interactive session sparked curiosity and discussions on the practical applications of such technologies.
Taking to the Skies: Xplane 12 Flight Simulator Experience
In FMCI’s mobile control centre, students had a unique, immersive experience: piloting an advanced air mobility aircraft in a virtual reality simulator. Their excitement was palpable as they embarked on virtual flights with Air Taxis over Shannon Airport, gaining insights into the principles of aviation and navigation. Wassim oversaw the Xplane 12 flight simulations with delight as the students embraced the thrill of virtual flight.
Drones and the ÉALÚ-AER Project Showcase
Before air taxis can take off, rigorous air traffic managements systems need to be in place. Students were thus keen to learn about the ÉALÚ-AER project, showcasing today’s foundations of Advanced Air Mobility. Wassim presented captivating drone demonstration videos, illustrating the capabilities of unmanned aerial vehicles. Students enjoyed a visual spectacle, sparking their imagination and prompting discussions about various applications of drone technology across different industries.
Fostering a Love for Learning
As the session ended, our COO couldn’t help but feel optimistic about the future. The students’ engagement highlighted the importance of exposing young minds to the wonders of technology. By instilling an early interest in science, engineering, and innovation, we are laying the groundwork for a generation that will undoubtedly shape the future.
ABOUT ÉALÚ-AER
ÉALÚ-AER is one of the first European Digital Sky Demonstrators to focus on U-space and Urban Air Mobility as part of the European ATM Master Plan designed by the SESAR Joint Undertaking (JU). SESAR JU aims at accelerating through research and innovation the delivery of an inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Digital European Sky.
Digital Sky Demonstrators, such as ÉALÚ-AER, are high-level Technology Readiness Level (TRL 7-8) projects that are funded in collaboration with the European Climate, Infrastructure and Environment Executive Agency (CINEA) under the Connected Europe Facility (CEF) funding instrument.
ÉALÚ-AER partners include: FMCI (coordinator), Collins Aerospace, The Shannon Airport Group, Avtrain, DeepBlue, Manna, AirNav Ireland and Spright.
The ÉALÚ-AER Project is co-funded by the European Union under the Connecting Europe Facility programme, managed by CINEA, and supported by the SESAR 3 Joint Undertaking.
For more details about the project, please follow this link: http://ealu-aer.eu/
