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Jet Zero: Govt offers £113m for future transport

New technologies such as electric flying taxis and hydrogen planes could be developed due to a new £113m investment from government.

In a joint announcement from the Business and Transport Secretaries today (Tuesday 7 February), the Aerospace Technology Institute (ATI) Programme, will see new zero-carbon technologies created.

Projects include Bristol-based electric aircraft manufacturer Vertical Aerospace developing high-end, lightweight batteries, as well as firms such as Rolls-Royce taking forward plans for a liquid hydrogen combusting jet engine – delivering flights with carbon emissions.

Additionally, the successful schemes will allow for new jobs in the supply chain and boost private investment in technologies associated with aviation emissions. A Call for Evidence also seeks views from the sector on how to reach the target for airport operations in England by 2040 as part of the government’s Jet Zero Strategy.

To date, the ATI Programme has delivered on a number of projects, such as the first flight of ZeroAvia’s hydrogen fuel cell aircraft last month.

Business Secretary Grant Shapps said: ““As the whole world moves to greener forms of aviation, there is a massive opportunity for the UK’s aerospace industry to secure clean, green jobs and growth for decades to come. Together with the companies that share our ambitions, we are determined to seize this moment.”

Transport Secretary Mark Harper said: “The Jet Zero Council is helping to define the future of flying – one that’s more optimistic about the sector’s environmental impact while putting UK innovation at the forefront of international aviation.

“As well as developing the next generation of aircraft, it’s also crucial we make the sector greener on the ground, and the call for evidence we’re launching today will help us gather evidence on how airports can reach zero emissions by 2040.”

Jet Zero Council, CEO Emma Gilthorpe, Chief Operating Officer at Heathrow Airport, said: “This investment, and the launch of the Call For Evidence on how airports in England can reach zero emissions by 2040, are another vital part of that journey and I look forward to continuing to collaborate with our partners in industry and Government to define the future of flying.”

Image from Shutterstock

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