UK Sets Bold Course to Jet Zero with New Two-Year Plan
The UK government and aviation industry have unveiled a rapid-fire plan to design, build, and launch zero-emission aircraft and airport infrastructure. The aim? To decarbonise aviation by 2050 and blaze ahead as the greenest G7 nation.
Jet Zero Council Takes Off at Farnborough
- The Jet Zero Council gathered at Farnborough Airport to publish a two-year roadmap.
- They pledged to speed up sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) production and crush down costs.
- Over £1million in government funding will boost liquid hydrogen aviation tech research.
Transport Secretary Mark Harper delivered a keynote at the sustainable Skies World Summit held alongside the meeting. He stressed the vital partnership between government, industry, and academia to power the journey to zero emissions.
Mark Harper: “This government is a determined partner to the aviation industry – helping accelerate new technology and fuels, modernise their operations, and work internationally to remove barriers to progress.”
“Together, we can set aviation up for success, continue harnessing its huge social and economic benefits, and ensure it remains a core part of the UK’s sustainable economic future.”
Fueling the Future: Sustainable Aviation Fuels and Hydrogen
Farnborough also hosted top experts at the Sustainable Skies World Summit. The government welcomed a fresh report from Philip New, former BP Alternative Energy CEO, laying out how to build a thriving UK SAF industry.
- The government is ploughing millions into first-of-its-kind SAF plants.
- Five Advanced Fuel Fund projects already receive cash to kickstart production.
- Plans include a new UK Hydrogen Capability Network to accelerate liquid hydrogen propulsion R&D.
Emma Gilthorpe, CEO of the Jet Zero Council, said:
“It’s fantastic for the Jet Zero Council to be meeting today at Sustainable Skies, maintaining the momentum built by government and industry on our vital journey to decarbonise aviation.”
“Our two-year plan will accelerate progress to hit 10% SAF in the UK fuel mix by 2030 and enable zero-emission transatlantic flights within a generation.”
Government Pledges Backing for UK’s Green Aviation Revolution
Energy Secretary Grant Shapps backed the plan, saying:
“I am thrilled to support today’s two-year action plan to future-proof our aviation industry and fast-track green jobs.”
“Boosting investment in sustainable aviation fuels marks a landmark step to keep passengers flying guilt-free.”
Business Minister Nusrat Ghani added:
“There is no time to waste in creating a sustainable, decarbonised aviation sector fit for the future.”
“By working with industry, we’re determined to fast-track zero-emission tech and strengthen UK manufacturing and exports.”
With £685million R&D funding via the Aerospace Technology Institute programme, the UK aims to lead globally in zero-emission aircraft development.
This bold package of investments and plans puts Britain on course to soar in the green skies of tomorrow.
