Aviation

Aviation is a key pillar in both the UK’s economic and societal prosperity. It supports growth in our tourism industry, increases trade and business investment, and connects people and places both domestically and internationally.

Today, the UK has the largest aviation network in Europe and the third largest in the world, contributing over £22 billion to the UK economy and underpinning more than 350,000 jobs. In line with increasing demand, the sector is growing rapidly and future aviation systems will need to be more efficient, cleaner and smarter.

To achieve these goals and reach industry targets of net-zero we must utilise improvements in whole fleet efficiency, sustainable aviation fuels, air traffic management and novel technologies. These new and sustainable business models will transform the way we live our lives, enabling travel for all and securing a thriving UK aerospace industry.

Innovate UK Business Connect’s Aviation team connects you with the partners required to accelerate your innovation from idea to solution. Our deep expertise and established networks then help you to position this innovation within the competitive aerospace market, providing guidance and support on appropriate grant competitions and networking opportunities.

We support you in overcoming business challenges with solutions that stretch and inspire beyond areas of expertise you may not have yet considered. As one team working across sectors we provide invaluable industry insight and coverage, embracing new ideas to uncover the best opportunities for you and your ideas.

 

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Related Opportunities

Dual-use aviation systems and autonomy

Opens: 05/05/2026   Closes: 03/06/2026

UK registered organisations can apply for a share of up to £10 million for the development of aviation technologies and systems that support both civil and military use cases. This funding is from Innovate UK, part of UK Research and Innovation (UKRI).

More Information

Counter UAS (Uncrewed Aerial Systems) Technologies

Opens: 05/05/2026   Closes: 03/06/2026

UK registered organisations can apply for a share of up to £5m to develop dual use (civil & military) technologies to counter Uncrewed Aerial Systems (UAS).

More Information

European Space Agency Open Call For Proposals: Proof-of-concept Studies and Pilot Projects

Rolling deadline: submit initial application (Activity Pitch Questionnaire) at any time.

An always-open invitation for businesses to apply for a funding activity relating to a space-enabled application or service for any industry, market or topic. UK applicants can receive up to 50% of costs.

More Information

Related Events and Recordings

Thu
13
Nov
2025

Sustainable Aviation Fuel Cafes

10.30 - 11.30 | Online

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Wed
19
Mar
2025

Cross-Sector Battery Showcase - Advancing Innovation Across Industries - 2025

08.30 - 16.30 GMT | Leicester

Watch now
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