Saudia partners with Airbus, Taqnia Aeronautics for Entaliq challenge

29/11/2017 08:29 AST

Saudi Arabian Airlines (Saudia) has partnered with Airbus and Taqnia Aeronautics, for the second edition of the aviation innovation challenge, Entaliq.

First launched in September 2016, the initiative represents a nationwide search for talented creative minds in the Kingdom, challenging them to advance the national aviation sector by innovating solutions to current industry challenges. The program is specifically tailored to inspire and support entrepreneurs who possess an idea or business model in the start-up phase.

Vice President Corporate Communications, Saudia, Abdulrahman Altayeb, said: “We are delighted to welcome the second edition of the Entaliq program. Many of the concepts presented in last year’s competition had the potential to make important developments to the aviation industry and we look forward to receiving more innovative ideas from the talented entrepreneurs of Saudi Arabia.”

Saudia has an extensive history of aviation, with the airline approaching its 73rd year of operations, flying around the globe to 89 destinations across four continents, with more than 500 daily departures.

Fouad Attar, head of Airbus commercial, Africa and Middle East, said: “We are delighted to launch the second edition of Entaliq in Saudi Arabia. Innovation is entwined with Airbus’ DNA and we are always considering new ways to further improve and enhance our industry. If you have a good idea, whether it’s big or small, we want to hear from you.

“Airbus is committed to working with its partners in Saudi Arabia to inspire and support the nation’s young people to pursue meaningful careers in aviation and aerospace. This program provides the Kingdom’s most talented, young entrepreneurs with exposure to the industry’s greatest minds to enable them to pursue their goals. We look forward to helping the gifted young people of this nation to turn their pioneering ideas into realty once again.” The initiative consists of several webinars and workshops to assist applicants with their innovations across a number of science and technology disciplines.

The top 10 candidates will receive a two-week mentoring session with some of the most well-known and renowned experts and professionals in the fields of aeronautics and aerospace. Three finalists will then receive an incubation opportunity with partners of the program, Rockwell Collins, Altran and Qotuf, to convert their ideas into reality and Airbus will support the process from their headquarters based in France.

Arab News