UK’s aerospace technology research program, the Aerospace Technology Institute (ATI), will receive record levels of government funding, advancing research and development of green aviation technology.
For the financial years 2022-2023 through 2024-2025, the ATI will receive £685 million from the government, an increase of £235 million over the previous three-year period. Industry will contribute co-funding, bringing the total investment to over £1 billion.
The funds will be used to build on the UK’s world-class research and development system to support the development of zero-carbon and ultra-low-emission aircraft technology, securing the UK’s position at the forefront of green technology advancement while supporting tens of thousands of jobs.
Previous projects that have received funding include ZeroAvia’s 6-seat hydrogen-electric aircraft, which is the world’s largest of its kind, and Rolls-development Royce’s of UltraFan, the world’s largest and most efficient aircraft engine. The government also announced that on Monday, April 4th, the ATI Program will reopen to new funding applications.
Since its inception in 2013, the ATI Program has created over 81,000 high-wage jobs and contributed £97 billion to the economy. It supports the development of the next generation of zero-carbon or ultra-low-emission aircraft while increasing the UK’s competitive position in civil aerospace by co-funding industry-led innovation in civil aerospace technology and manufacturing.
The ATI Program has been extended until 2031 as a result of its success. This commitment provides industry with the assurance that it can continue to invest alongside the government to drive growth, jobs, innovation, and lower aviation emissions.
The ATI Program is an important part of the government’s Jet Zero policy, which includes the Jet Zero Council, which was formed to bring together government, industry, and academia and is co-chaired by the Business Secretary and the Transport Secretary. This summer, the final Jet Zero strategy will be released.
This money comes on top of £180 million in new government funding announced in the Net Zero Strategy to help with the deployment and commercialization of Sustainable Aviation Fuel plants in the UK.
