Bandung – The Faculty of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering (FTMD) at Institut Teknologi Bandung (ITB) continues to demonstrate its strong commitment to advancing aerospace research in Indonesia. This commitment was highlighted during a visit from Airbus delegates on October 18, 2024, represented by Mr. Dani Adrianto (President Director of PT Airbus Indonesia Nusantara), Mr. Ahmad Shahab, and Ms. Renita Putri. The Airbus delegation was warmly received by FTMD Dean Prof. Dr. Ir. Tatacipta Dirgantara, Vice Dean of Academics Prof. Ir. Lavi Rizki Zuhal, and several academic staff, including Dr. Taufiq Mulyanto, ST., Ms. Lia Amelia Tresna Wulan Asri, Ph.D., and Dr. Ing. Javensius Sembiring, ST., MT.

This meeting was a continuation of earlier discussions between FTMD and Airbus representatives during the Bali International Airshow (BIAS) 2024 on September 18, 2024. The airshow, Southeast Asia’s largest aerospace exhibition, involved over 100 companies and delegations from 35 countries.

The recent visit centered on strategic collaboration opportunities in research and academics. Airbus, which has maintained a strong relationship with Indonesia since 1979—when Garuda Indonesia ordered the Airbus A300B4—continues to play a pivotal role in the country’s aerospace industry.

Airbus’s presence as a global industry partner offers immense opportunities for FTMD. The collaboration aims to facilitate technology transfer, joint research initiatives, and human resource development through international partnerships.

“With Airbus as a potential partner, FTMD students can gain not only knowledge but also global exposure,” said Prof. Dr. Ir. Tatacipta Dirgantara. This partnership strengthens FTMD’s mission to foster innovation and produce graduates equipped to compete on a global scale.

FTMD has previously collaborated with major aerospace companies such as Garuda Maintenance Facility (GMF) and Pasifik Satelit Nusantara, offering students semester-long internships and involvement in industrial research. The Airbus partnership will complement these initiatives, creating more opportunities for students to gain valuable hands-on experience in the global aviation industry.

Both parties have agreed to explore the full potential of this partnership in future discussions. With Airbus’s support, FTMD aims to enhance its research and teaching capabilities while solidifying its position as a leading institution in aerospace technology development in Indonesia.