Richard Curran

Professor Richard Curran is Head of Aviation Management at City St George's, University of London, where he leads research and education in sustainable aviation, air transport operations, and system integration. Previously, he was Head of Air Transport and Operations at Delft University of Technology, where he held the KLM Chair of Engineering and Maintenance. His work bridges academia and industry, with strong ties to Airbus and Bombardier Aerospace.

• Education: PhD in Aeronautical Engineering, Queen’s University Belfast
• Previous Position: Professor and Department Head, TU Delft
• Current Affiliation: City St George's, University of London

His research centers on sustainable aviation evolution, focusing on Direct Operating Cost, Life Cycle Analysis, and environmental impact reduction. He integrates aerodynamics, digital manufacturing, and cost engineering to improve product life management. His work emphasizes safe, efficient, and environmentally responsible air transport systems.

The 15 most recent publications reveal a strong trend in decision support systems, aircraft maintenance optimization, prognostics and health management (PHM), and sustainable end-of-life strategies for aircraft. His work combines optimization, machine learning, and systems engineering to address real-world challenges in aviation operations, maintenance, and sustainability.

• KLM Chair of Engineering and Maintenance
• Royal Society Visiting Fellowship

Professor Curran has advised numerous researchers and PhD students, particularly in the areas of aircraft maintenance, dispatch systems, and sustainability. His projects often involve industry collaboration and funding from aviation stakeholders. He has developed educational programs focused on the integration of airlines, airports, and air traffic management for sustainable operations.

He leads research teams working on decision support systems, aircraft lifecycle analysis, and sustainable aviation integration. His lab at TU Delft and current group at City focus on digital solutions for maintenance, operational efficiency, and environmental performance.