The UK Government has said today (January 20) it will invest up to £43 million to support green aviation.
The funding is said to “progress ambitions” for zero emission aircraft and further research into contrails' impact on the environment. Additionally, the support aims to open new job opportunities in the country and unlock private investment.
The investment comes amid expansion plans at London's Heathrow, Gatwick, and Luton airports.
Businesses, researchers and universities across the UK will be invited to bid for their share of the £43 million, with competitions launching from next month.
“Our £43 million investment will deliver the cutting-edge technology of the future, grow the economy and support highly skilled jobs as part of our mission to deliver national renewal,” said UK Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander.
"Zero emission aircraft, hydrogen fuels and other emerging technologies are vital to reduce the climate impacts from flying, and will enable us to deliver our airport expansion plans to boost connectivity and grow the economy."
The Civil Aviation Authority will develop regulations required for the widespread use of hydrogen fuel through this investment – including support for pioneering companies and universities that are preparing for new zero carbon technology.
This is backed by an additional £63 million to accelerate new SAF production plants, alongside £2.3bn through the Aerospace Technology Institute programme over the next decade to support cutting-edge aerospace innovation and thousands of highly skilled jobs.