EU announces fresh funding for ‘disruptive’ research into clean aircraft

(EurActiv, 26 Feb 2021) The European Commission announced on Tuesday (23 February) that it will finance the development of new aircraft powered by clean fuel sources, in a bid to cut aviation emissions by 2050.

The EU executive said the money will go towards “disruptive research and innovation solutions” in the aviation sector, to develop “the next generation of ultra-efficient low-carbon aircraft”.

ClanSky2, a joint undertaking between the European Union and the aviation industry, said it will pursue three main thrusts as part of the programme: “hybrid electric and full electric concepts, ultra-efficient aircraft architectures, and disruptive technologies to enable hydrogen-powered aircraft”.

The aim is to introduce a new breed of regional, short and medium haul airliners that will be offered to the market by 2030 for an entry into service by 2035.

“These new aircraft are likely to constitute 75% of the world’s commercial airline fleet by 2050 and thus will have a major impact on aviation’s emissions and climate impact,” it said.

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EurActiv, 26 Feb 2021: EU announces fresh funding for ‘disruptive’ research into clean aircraft