Government Investment and Sustainable Aviation

The UK is entering a transformative era for aviation. Driven by a powerful combination of government investment, technological innovation and a growing commitment to sustainability as it positions itself as a global leader. Lauren Ainsworth, Trainee Solicitor in the Construction team, at purpose-led independent law firm Brabners, takes a closer look at the latest developments and opportunities ahead.

Government investment

The UK aerospace sector is set to receive over £250 million in funding to drive forward “cutting-edge green aerospace tech projects”. This investment will accelerate innovation in areas such as next-generation gas turbines, hydrogen-powered flight, and laser-based technologies for large-scale aerostructure manufacturing.

Designed to secure the UK’s leadership in sustainable aviation, the funding will also support the creation of thousands of high-skilled jobs across the country — particularly in regions like Lancashire, where major aerospace players such as BAE Systems operate key facilities in Warton and Samlesbury.

In addition to this, the UK has made a 10-year commitment to support aerospace research and development. As part of its new industrial strategy, which was launched on 23 June, the government is providing £2.3bn via the Aerospace Technology Institute (ATI) programme. This funding enables both researchers and businesses to nurture talent, form partnerships, and to collaborate. It also strengthens the UK’s position as a world leader for innovation, giving international companies the confidence to invest in UK companies and support the development of zero-carbon emission aircraft technologies.

Sustainable aviation

There is a growing momentum around sustainable aviation, with developments in electric and hydrogen-powered aircraft gaining traction. While not exclusive to the North of England, the trends are influencing regional supply chains and research & development priorities.

In May, the UK Government announced new measures to speed up the production of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), reinforcing the country’s ambition to lead in the global green aviation market. Under legislation introduced in January, at least 10% of jet fuel used on UK-departing flights must be sustainable by 2030, rising to 22% by 2040.

This includes a revenue certainty mechanism to provide financial stability for SAF producers and limit cost impacts on consumers – meaning that the average ticket price changes will be kept to a minimum and will be industry funded through a levy on aviation fuel suppliers. Additionally, £400,000 has been allocated to support the testing and certification of new fuels, helping to bring them to market faster. These initiatives form part of the UK’s broader Plan for Change, aimed at decarbonising aviation, supporting job creation, and driving economic growth. SAF can reduce lifecycle emissions by up to 70%, making it a vital component in the transition to cleaner air travel.

In June this year, Airbus and MTU Aero Engines committed to working together on hydrogen fuel cell propulsion, a key technology that aims at decarbonising aviation. The partnership consists of Airbus, the largest aeronautics and space company in Europe plus pioneer in hydrogen-powered aviation, and MTU Aero Engines, a German aircraft engine manufacturer that works on both civil and military aircraft, with a commitment to sustainability.

Safran, which has a site based in Burnley, has successfully delivered the first prototype of its power transmission system for the turbogenerators on the Large Capacity Airship 60 Tons (LCA60T). This innovative 200-metre-long airship is capable of hovering while loading and unloading up to 60 tons of cargo, making it ideal for industries such as timber, freight, and exceptional transport. The development marks a significant step in Safran’s commitment to aviation decarbonisation, offering a sustainable solution for transporting heavy or oversized loads while minimising environmental impact.

Prepare for the future

With the UK positioning itself at the forefront through government investment and progressive policy measures, businesses and innovators in this space will require legal support to navigate through the complexities of growth, collaboration and compliance.

It’s important that businesses don’t shy away from these new developments and move forward understanding these changes as they happen — whether it be evolving regulatory landscapes, guidance on joint ventures, understanding leasing for new ventures, or newly-introduced aviation sustainability laws.

Engaging in this new era with an expert legal advisor by your side in this competitive economic climate will allow your firm can seize the opportunities ahead. For more information on what support is available, regardless of aviation sector, we can support you. Get in touch.