National Institute for Aviation Research
Research ServicesKansas, United States501-1000 Employees
National Institute for Aviation Research (NIAR) is a research unit within Wichita State University, based in Wichita, Kansas. It delivers research, design, testing, certification and training services to the aviation, defense, manufacturing, and related industries. As part of the university's Industry and Defense Programs division, NIAR operates a substantial footprint, with nearly two million square feet of laboratory and office space across six locations in the city. Its focus areas include modernization of materials and manufacturing, digital transformation and sustainment modernization, test and evaluation, engineering, modification and prototyping, and system automation and digital manufacturing. These capabilities support clients pursuing product development, certification, and ongoing operational readiness in aviation and adjacent sectors. In May 2026, NIAR announced a collaboration with Hexcel Corporation and celebrated the groundbreaking of the Hexcel Applications Center in Wichita, marking an expansion of its industry partnerships.