04-02-2026
Photo: João Lima/NOVA FCT
The NOVA University Lisbon presented, on February 3, the NOVA Aerospace, a unique project in Portugal. The NOVA Aerospace positions itself as a structuring initiative for scientific, technological, economic, and territorial development, anchored in the potential of the Cascais Aerodrome and guided by an integrated vision of innovation, knowledge, and industry. The project proposes an integrated regional development model based on the concept of a “university airport,” combining infrastructure, services, technology, and knowledge.
“NOVA Aerospace reflects Universidade NOVA de Lisboa’s vision for a development model that bridges science, education, technology, territory, and economic impact. It is a project that places knowledge at the service of the country, industrial innovation, and Portugal’s international standing in the aviation and space sectors,” said the Rector of Universidade NOVA de Lisboa.
This new hub will also host the new Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering at NOVA FCT.
NOVA FCT’s research experience in the field of Aerospace Engineering spans several decades and includes a broad portfolio of innovative projects. Its educational offering in this area began with the Master’s in Aerospace Engineering, now expanded with the launch of the Bachelor’s program, starting in the 2026/27 academic year.
“The role of NOVA FCT in the NOVA Aerospace project—both in research and in academic training—constitutes a fundamental asset for the success of this initiative and of the industry itself. NOVA Aerospace can thus make a decisive contribution to a distinctive academic project within NOVA in such an important field,” added José Júlio Alferes, Dean of NOVA FCT.
João Martins, Member of NOVA FCT’s Commission on NOVA Aerospace, highlighted the importance of the practical component to be developed at the Cascais Airport, which will now be available to students in both the bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Aerospace Engineering at NOVA FCT.
During the event, partnership agreements were also signed with aerospace and aeronautical companies that will establish themselves within the NOVA Aerospace cluster.
Through NOVA Aerospace, NOVA University Lisbon strengthens its position as a pioneering institution in connecting academia, industry, and public policy, contributing to establishing Cascais as a national and international reference hub in the new aviation and space economy.
Photo gallery here. (João Lima/NOVAFCT)
