The European Union is advancing its efforts to develop next-generation regional aircraft through its Innovation and Technology program, funding multiple projects aimed at improving efficiency and sustainability of regional airliners. The projects, totaling €664 million, focus on technologies such as hybrid-electric propulsion and advanced airframe designs, with key developments led by ATR and its collaborators.
ATR’s partnership with Leonardo is spearheading the Athena project, which aims to demonstrate an ultra-efficient airframe beginning early 2027, with ground or flight tests planned for 2029-30. This initiative is part of the broader Clean Aviation program, which has allocated significant funding to over 19 projects since its inception in 2021.
Earlier phases of the program funded projects including hybrid engine development, with a commitment to flight test a hybrid-electric regional aircraft demonstrator by 2030. These technologies are contributing to ATR’s considerations for its next product, with plans to pursue parallel tracks for hybrid-electric propulsion and next-generation turboprop engines. The results of these projects will shape the future of regional aviation, emphasizing sustainability and technological innovation.
