The European Commission is currently working on a dedicated industrial strategy for the aviation sector, aiming to guide future EU research and innovation funding. Transport Commissioner Apostolos Tzitzikostas emphasized the need for a collaborative approach involving industry, particularly in simplifying regulation and shaping the next Horizon Europe partnerships, including Clean Aviation and Sesar. Industry representatives highlight that Europe accounts for approximately 40% of the global civil aeronautics market but stress the necessity of a strategic plan to maintain this leadership amid increasing competition from the US and China.
The industry calls for at least doubling EU funding for civil aviation research in the next EU budget, advocating for €5.3 billion for aircraft technologies and €700 million for air traffic management in the upcoming Horizon Europe program. Also, there is a push to allocate more of the EU Emissions Trading System revenues towards decarbonizing aviation, including sustainable aviation fuels.
Support for dual-use innovation
Furthermore, the strategy plans to support dual-use innovations with both civil and military potential, including investments in drone, autonomous systems, and AI technology, aiming to boost Europe's industrial competitiveness. Stakeholders highlight the importance of harmonized rules and the integration of civil and defense aerospace ecosystems to foster technological excellence.
"As the European Defence Fund and other EU instruments continue to expand, the convergence between civil aeronautics, defence, space and security becomes increasingly evident," said Apostolos Tzitzikostas.
European industry leaders acknowledge existing strengths, such as shared aerospace assets and integrated defense capabilities, but point out that governance and political coordination between civil and military sectors still require improvement. The strategy is also driven by concerns over global leadership and the need to adapt to technological and environmental challenges, including green hydrogen and synthetic fuels. The European Commission's plans follow recent investments in sustainable transport and aim to ensure Europe remains at the forefront of aviation innovation.
