DfT announces £43m competition round for zero emission aviation R&D

The Department for Transport (DfT) has unveiled up to £43m in funding aimed at advancing aviation technologies that will help the sector move toward net-zero emissions by 2050.

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The funding will be allocated through competitions opening in February, with bids expected from businesses, universities and research organisations. Projects receiving awards are expected to focus on technologies that could reduce carbon emissions from air travel and contribute to cleaner flight operations.

Among the areas highlighted for potential support are:

Zero-emission aircraft development, including next-generation designs and propulsion systems that avoid conventional fossil fuels.

Hydrogen fuel technologies, reflecting broader government interest in hydrogen as a low-carbon energy source for aviation.

Sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) research and infrastructure, which aim to reduce lifecycle emissions compared with traditional jet fuel.

Studies into reducing climate-warming effects from aircraft contrails, the visible water vapour trails that can contribute to atmospheric warming.

DfT said the funding will unlock private investment and support a pipeline of highly skilled jobs in scientific research, engineering and technology development. Low-carbon fuel production alone is expected to contribute as much as £5bn to the UK economy by 2050.

As part of the programme, the Civil Aviation Authority will work with industry to develop the regulatory framework required for the widespread use of hydrogen fuel and other advanced technologies. The funding is also expected to help strengthen participation in sustainable aviation fuel markets in regions including Africa and the Caribbean.

Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said the investment will “power up green aviation” and bolster the UK’s capability to deliver cutting-edge aviation technology, supporting economic growth while addressing climate goals.