Internship: stand compatibility for future sustainable aircraft

What you will do during your internship

With the drive for more sustainable aircraft operations, current and new manufacturers are designing new aircraft types. Some of these are closely related to current aircraft model designs, others have started from scratch to design the most optimal aircraft fit for purpose. Especially with electric aircraft, the heavy batteries cause challenges with the design. This could lead to a higher desire of aerodynamic aspects of the aircraft, like the wings. With more wingspan, the aircraft could be more efficient. However, nowadays airports are planned using current aircraft designs (ICAO Aircraft Codes). So what if the wingspan of the future sustainable aircraft will be larger than what is common now?

Main questions to be answered:

• What are the implications of not being able to use ICAO Code C stands?
• How common are ICAO Code D stands globally?
• How would it be different when the future aircraft can only be handled on remote stands?
• Are airports currently able to handle more ICAO Code D/E aircraft?
• What would airports need to adapt in their infrastructure to be able to handle more ICAO Code D/E aircraft? And what are the costs associated with these adaptations?
• What would be the consequences of only being able to operate outside peak hours? And how would this affect the operational windows and CASK?
• Would there be a way to more effectively use ICAO Code E stands, similar idea, but different to MARS stands?

Where you will work

This internship is offered as collaboration between NACO and the industry in the form of Elysian Aircraft.

At Haskoning, you will join an independent, employee-owned international consultancy that combines engineering, design, and consultancy services with software and technology. Our mission, "Enhancing Society Together," drives us to create a positive impact on the world.

We offer purpose-driven and challenging work in diverse international projects, leveraging our 140+ years of expertise. With over 6,800 employees in more than 25 countries, we work together to turn challenges into opportunities and make a real impact on society. We collaborate with leading clients in markets such as infrastructure, climate resilience, renewable energy, decarbonisation of industry, and sustainable mobility.

NACO (Netherlands Airport Consultants), a company of Haskoning, is a world-leading airport consultancy and engineering firm with over 75 years’ experience in creating future-ready airports and spearheading the next generation of aviation. From major landmark design and regional airport hubs to world-class customer experience and sustainable aviation, we harness the skills and expertise across our multidisciplinary team to shape the future of aviation. We run our aviation business from our head office in Delft.

What you bring

You are a Bsc in aerospace engineering or aviation. And you recognise yourself in:

• Strong analytical and research skills – Able to quickly gather, assess, and synthesize relevant information to support well-founded conclusions or insights.
• Excellent writing skills – Capable of producing clear, structured, and engaging written content tailored to the target audience.
• Ability to work under time pressure – Comfortable with tight deadlines and able to switch quickly between tasks without losing focus or quality.

What we offer you

You’ll work alongside enthusiastic and seasoned professionals in the field. The internship runs from February to August 2025 (flexible), with the possibility of extension.

We prioritize a healthy work-life balance and offer a monthly stipend of €550, along with 10 leave days for full-time interns. While we prefer full-time interns, part-time opportunities are also available. Additionally, we provide university feedback and evaluation to support your personal and professional development.

Are you our new intern?

We would love to get to know you! Please apply directly via the button below and make sure to indicate in your cover letter why you would like to become an intern at NACO.

Due to privacy regulations, we ask you to apply via the button below and not to email your CV and cover letter to us.

Acquisition for this vacancy by agencies is not desired and offered candidates will not be considered.