The newly established China-Portugal Aviation Simulation Technology Research Institute brings together China Southern Airlines, Guangdong University of Technology (GDUT), the University of Saint Joseph (USJ) in Macao and the University of Madeira. Launched in June in Guangzhou, the institute was recently formalised through a memorandum of understanding signed at the University of Madeira.

According to Carlos Sena Caires, Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Humanities at USJ, the new institute aims to develop projects with direct applications in the aviation industry. USJ will contribute expertise in design consultancy and virtual and augmented reality. The University of Madeira will provide its expertise in studying the island’s wind patterns and topography, including through the use of artificial intelligence.

According to Caires, the partners plan to develop simulators for pilot training and terrain modelling. The projects could result in patents, new models and applications, strengthening links between higher education and industry.

The memorandum also provides for academic mobility, exchanges of academic staff and students, and joint workshops. Caires said that the partnership was in line with USJ’s internationalisation strategy and strengthened Macao’s role as a platform for economic and trade co-operation with Portuguese-speaking Countries.

(Source: RTP Notícias, 4 August)