Deadline: 19-May-2026
The hybrid-electric propulsion funding initiative under Horizon Europe provides €329.5 million to support ground-based demonstrations of ultra-efficient SMR aircraft technologies. The call focuses on advancing hybrid-electric propulsion systems to reduce emissions and enable next-generation sustainable aviation.
Overview of the Programme
This large-scale funding call supports the development and validation of hybrid-electric propulsion systems for Small and Medium Range (SMR) aircraft.
It emphasizes real-world, ground-based demonstrations to test performance, integration, and environmental impact before commercial deployment.
Core Objectives
The initiative aims to:
- Advance hybrid-electric propulsion technologies
- Reduce aviation-related carbon emissions
- Support sustainable aircraft innovation
- Enable future commercialization of green aviation solutions
- Align research with long-term industry deployment goals
Key Focus Areas
Projects should address:
- Hybrid-electric propulsion system development
- Integration into ducted and unducted engine architectures
- Ground-based demonstration in realistic environments
- Subsystem validation and performance testing
- Roadmapping toward higher technology readiness
Technical Targets
Projects are expected to:
- Achieve Technology Readiness Level 5 (TRL5)
- Demonstrate at least 5% CO₂ reduction at aircraft level
- Develop a roadmap toward TRL6 by 2030
- Support entry into service by 2035
Funding Details
- Total budget: €329,500,000
- Funding supports large-scale, high-impact R&D projects
- Focus on demonstration and validation rather than early-stage research
Who is Eligible?
Eligible applicants include:
- Any legal entity worldwide
- Universities and research institutions
- Companies and industry players
- International organisations
Applicants must:
- Meet Horizon Europe requirements
- Register in the Participant Register
- Obtain a Participant Identification Code (PIC)
What the Programme Supports
The programme supports:
- Ground demonstration of propulsion technologies
- Integration of hybrid-electric subsystems
- Aviation decarbonization solutions
- Collaborative, large-scale innovation projects
What is Not Supported
The programme does NOT support:
- Concepts without demonstration plans
- Projects below required TRL progression
- Proposals lacking measurable emission reduction impact
How to Apply (Step-by-Step)
- Develop a hybrid-electric propulsion concept
- Ensure alignment with TRL and emission targets
- Form a consortium (if required for large-scale projects)
- Register in the Participant Register
- Obtain a PIC (Participant Identification Code)
- Prepare technical and financial proposal
- Submit application under Horizon Europe
- Complete validation and grant agreement steps if selected
Why It Matters
This initiative is important because:
- Aviation is a major contributor to global emissions
- Hybrid-electric propulsion is key to decarbonization
- It bridges research and real-world deployment
- It supports Europe’s leadership in green aviation
- It accelerates innovation toward 2035 market entry
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Weak demonstration or validation plans
- عدم clear pathway to TRL5/TRL6 progression
- Insufficient emission reduction evidence
- Poor consortium structure for large-scale projects
Tips for a Strong Application
- Provide clear technical architecture and integration plan
- Quantify expected CO₂ reduction
- Demonstrate feasibility of ground testing
- Align with long-term commercialization roadmap
- Build strong partnerships across industry and research
FAQ
What is this Horizon Europe call about?
It funds hybrid-electric propulsion technologies for sustainable aviation.
How much funding is available?
€329.5 million.
Who can apply?
Any legal entity worldwide, including companies, universities, and research organisations.
What is the key target?
At least 5% reduction in CO₂ emissions and achieving TRL5.
Is collaboration required?
Typically yes, due to the scale of projects.
What is the long-term goal?
Commercial deployment of hybrid-electric aircraft by 2035.
Conclusion
This Horizon Europe funding opportunity represents a major step toward sustainable aviation. By supporting large-scale demonstrations of hybrid-electric propulsion, it accelerates the transition to low-emission aircraft and future-ready aviation systems.
For more information, visit European Commission (EC).
