European aviation research policy – electric and hybrid aircraft technologies

Although the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic has had an unprecedented impact on human life, the global economy and the aviation ecosystem, there are many research projects that are delivering outstanding results and innovations. The forthcoming EU research and innovation program for the 2021-2027 period, Horizon Europe, will pay particular attention to disruptive and innovative aviation technologies in support of wider EU policy objectives, namely climate neutrality and digital transformation. Climate neutrality for aviation is a complex, long-term, international challenge. Apart from the required technological innovations, safety should remain a top-level priority. Furthermore, potential financial investments for carbon-free or low-carbon fuels as well as airport infrastructures are considerable. Recognizing that the ambitious European climate neutrality goals cannot be achieved by one company or one nation alone, Europe takes the lead together with all the relevant stakeholders. In this presentation, we will review the European aviation research policy and the main research projects that contribute to the electric and hybrid aerospace.