The government has announced an ambitious £7.3 million funding package to propel the development of zero-emission flights and flying taxis across the UK. The significant investment will be shared among eight pioneering British companies, supporting projects that tackle key infrastructure challenges for green aviation, including electric charging points and hydrogen storage solutions.
As part of a larger £43 million initiative, these recipients will focus on integrating advanced aircraft technologies into commercial airport operations, paving the way for safer handling of electric and hydrogen-powered planes. The move aims to accelerate the transition towards cleaner air travel, create highly skilled jobs nationwide, and boost economic growth.
The funding announcement comes hot on the heels of Vertical Aerospace's unveiling of its six-seater aircraft at Farnborough International Airshow, with passenger services projected to commence by 2029. New government-backed research from the University of Birmingham also highlights the potential for flying taxis to enhance connectivity, stimulate economic growth, and contribute to a cleaner aviation sector.
This latest investment builds on a £46.5 million commitment made in May, aimed at developing flying taxis and drones for various applications, including medical deliveries, police support, and commercial logistics. Amazon's ongoing drone delivery trials in Darlington demonstrate the practical application of this emerging technology.
Heidi Alexander, Secretary of State for Transport, hailed the investment as a key step towards creating a greener aviation sector, while creating skilled jobs and driving economic growth. The move underscores the UK's commitment to collaboration with industry leaders to reduce emissions, foster innovation, and maintain its position as a global hub for aviation technology.
The funding is part of wider efforts to reduce carbon emissions from flying, including ongoing discussions at the Jet Zero Taskforce Expert Group and the £2.3 billion government commitment over the next decade to the Aerospace Technology Institute Programme. The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) also published findings from its Hydrogen Challenge earlier this week, showcasing progress in safely introducing hydrogen as a zero-emission aviation fuel.