This year’s call launched by the Clean Aviation Joint Undertaking attracted significant interest from EU Member States, associated countries and partners from third countries. Łukasiewicz – Institute of Aviation was actively involved in the preparation and submission of research and development proposals, ultimately submitting four project concepts.
We are pleased to announce that the European Commission has published the results of the call, which represent a major success for Łukasiewicz – ILOT. Three out of the four proposals submitted by the Institute have been selected for funding, resulting in an impressive 75% success rate. The awarded projects will also bring nearly PLN 15 million in funding to Łukasiewicz – ILOT.
Source: Clean Aviation JU
https://www.clean-aviation.eu/ultra-efficient-regional-aircraft-thrust
One of the projects selected for funding is ATHENA. Its objective is to develop and demonstrate an advanced airframe structure for an ultra-efficient regional aircraft concept. Implemented in cooperation with the HERACLES initiative, the project will cover, among other areas, the development of a high-aspect-ratio wing, an innovative fuselage and an advanced empennage. ATHENA is expected to contribute to the development of a hybrid-electric regional aircraft targeted for entry into service around 2035, while supporting Clean Aviation’s objectives of reducing CO₂ emissions and improving passenger comfort.
The second initiative is H-ELENA (Hydrogen Engine for Low-Emission of NOx Architecture), addressing the topic of demonstrating an advanced low-NOx propulsion system for an aircraft concept powered by direct hydrogen combustion. The project brings together leading European research teams tasked with developing innovative hydrogen combustion systems and engine architectures, taking into account future certification and safety requirements.
Source: Clean Aviation JU
https://www.clean-aviation.eu/ultra-efficient-regional-aircraft-thrust
The third project is ATLAS, which addresses the objectives of the Clean Aviation FTA-07 call through the development and validation of an innovative, lightweight Type V liquid hydrogen (LH₂) tank for fuel-cell-powered fully electric aircraft. The project will demonstrate a full-scale LH₂ tank at Technology Readiness Level 4 (TRL4), supported by tests of a sub-scale demonstrator under representative cryogenic conditions. The proposed solution is expected to achieve demanding performance targets in terms of gravimetric efficiency, boil-off-free storage duration, pressure resistance, leak tightness, manufacturability and certification readiness, while also establishing a pathway for further development towards TRL6.
Łukasiewicz – Institute of Aviation can already celebrate a 75% success rate in this call; however, this result may yet improve. The Institute’s fourth proposal, NEXOPS-2035, has been placed on the reserve list. NEXOPS-2035 focuses on the operational aspects of future aviation. The project will establish a stakeholder group bringing together, among others, airports, airlines, MRO service providers and air traffic management organisations. Its task will be to develop guidelines and recommendations supporting the implementation of new aircraft concepts and breakthrough technologies.
The selection of three projects for funding represents a significant achievement for Łukasiewicz – ILOT and confirms the Institute’s strong position within the European research and innovation ecosystem shaping the future of aviation.
