Innovation Management Journal

Innovation Management Journal

Developing a paradigmatic model of technology transfer in the passenger aircraft manufacturing industry in Iran with a grounded-theory approach

Authors
Hossein Shokri 1
Abbas Khamseh 2
Manouchehr Manteghi, 3
1 Department of Technology Management, SR.C., Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
2 Department of Technology Management, Ka.C., Islamic Azad University, Karaj, Iran.
3 Full Professor, Management and Soft Technologies, Malek Ashtar University of Technology, Tehran, Iran
10.22034/imj.2026.245387
Abstract

The passenger aircraft manufacturing industry, as a complex product and system, is a strategic priority for developed countries. However, the country's experience in transferring this technology has often been accompanied by failure and sustainability. The main reason for this failure is a fragmented view of the transfer process. Although the technology transfer ecosystem approach provides a comprehensive framework, existing models are often developed for free markets and ignore specific conditions such as international sanctions. Accordingly, the aim of the present study is to present a paradigmatic model of technology transfer in the passenger aircraft manufacturing industry. In this regard, using grounded-theory with the Strauss and Corbin approach, 53 components were extracted in the form of a paradigmatic model through interviews with 10 aviation industry experts. The final research model shows that sustainable technology transfer in this industry requires moving beyond a fragmented view and adopting a holistic approach. The findings emphasize the necessity of supporting the will of the government from causal conditions, reforming the economic structure towards private sector participation, and intelligently managing intervening conditions such as standards and intellectual property. The strategic heart of the model is the empowerment of system integrators and intelligent international networking. Ultimately, the desired outcome is defined not simply as technical localization, but also as achieving successful commercialization and technological resilience against sanctions.
Keywords
Technology transfer ecosystems
passenger aircraft manufacturing industry
complex products and systems (CoPS)
grounded theory.