The EPSRC funded Airport Energy Technologies Network (AETN) was founded in 2008 to develop the low carbon energy research community and its links with the key industrial and commercial players in the Airport, Airline and Aeronautical industries. The Network participants are conducting research projects which represent high value to commerce and industry in terms of energy efficiency, reduced emissions, and compliance with future operating practices and legislation. The core requirement of AETN membership is the generation of different perspectives, innovation, and fresh insights from disciplines and market sectors not traditionally associated with this field. It is this concept which is core to differentiating the Network from existing groups. It is unique in this aspect, and will undertake a vital role in bringing its members' high risk, high adventure research to general acknowledgement and acceptance.