Are you involved in developing groundbreaking technologies aimed at decarbonising aviation? Then the Clean Aviation funding scheme may be of interest to you. This initiative encourages businesses, universities, research centres, and experts from the aviation industry to develop and implement new impactful technologies within the aviation sector.

The objective of Clean Aviation

Clean Aviation focuses on the rapid development and implementation of technologies that contribute to cleaner aviation. The funding scheme contributes to the development of new aircraft technologies, in support of the European Green Deal and climate neutrality by 2050. The grant scheme has two key objectives:

1. Developing technologies that contribute to reducing carbon emissions in aviation
2. Developing a strong and globally competitive aviation industry and supply chain in Europe

Grant Budget

The fourth call opens on 17 February 2026. A grant budget of € 329,5 million has been allocated for this fourth call. This budget will be distributed across several themes:

• Ultra-efficient Short-Medium Range aircraft architectures (SMR) –  € 130 million
• Hydrogen-Powered aircraft architectures (HPA) –  € 101 million
• Ultra-efficient Regional aircraft architectures (REG) – € 40 million
• Fast-track Areas (FTA) – € 40 million
• Transverse activities (TRANSV) –  € 18.5 million

New initiative: Fast Track Areas 

Clean Aviation has introduced a new initiative to promote disruptive technologies. The Fast Track Areas (FTA) are designed to reduce the risks associated with alternative and complementary technical solutions, allowing for faster implementation. A budget of € 40 million has been allocated for this initiative, prioritising projects where impactful technologies can be rapidly developed and linked to SMR and REG projects. Additionally, the focus will be on solutions that address the most urgent challenges in decarbonising aviation.

Clean Aviation Deadlines for Call 4

The fourth call for Clean Aviation opens on 17 February 2026. Besides that, there are several other important dates for this fourth call:

• 9 December 2025: publication of the 2026-2027 work programme including the list of topic descriptions identified in call 4
• 13 February 2026: pitch and connect event for potential participants to pitch their ideas
• 17 February 2026: launch call 4
• 18 February 2026: info day call 4

Applying for Clean Aviation grant in 2026?

The third call for Clean Aviation is scheduled for 2026. Through this grant scheme, parties are encouraged to develop and implement technologies that contribute to the decarbonisation of aviation. Are you curious whether your project qualifies for Clean Aviation funding? Our specialists are happy to help you explore what opportunities are available. Please contact us at 088 495 20 00 or info@hezelburcht.com.