Deadline Date: May 19, 2026
The European Commission is inviting applications aimed at advancing certification methodologies for aircraft icing conditions, supporting safer and more efficient aviation systems aligned with future entry-into-service goals.
The focus areas of this call include the development of validated numerical, physics-based and AI-assisted icing prediction tools, creation of comprehensive validation databases for ice accretion and aerodynamic effects, delivery of draft Acceptable Means of Compliance for Appendix O icing conditions, establishment of regulatory roadmaps and certification methodologies, and strengthening European industrial and research capabilities in icing certification aligned with future aircraft concepts.
This funding opportunity provides a maximum EU contribution of EUR 12 million for the topic, with only one project expected to be funded. Each project can request up to EUR 12 million, and proposals exceeding this limit will be considered ineligible. Additionally, at least 15% of the total EU contribution must be allocated to SMEs, Research and Technology Organisations, and universities with beneficiary status, making this a key eligibility requirement.
The project duration is up to 36 months under an Innovation Action framework. The selected project will focus on developing advanced numerical tools incorporating realistic icing scenarios, improved understanding of droplet physics, and integration of AI-based modelling approaches. Validation activities will rely on wind tunnel testing, experimental datasets, and available flight test data, while flight testing itself is not eligible under this funding.
The expected outcomes include improved certification processes, reduced time and cost for compliance, and enhanced readiness of innovative aircraft technologies for safe entry into service by 2035, contributing significantly to the future of sustainable aviation in Europe.
Eligibility for participation is open to any legal entity, regardless of place of establishment, including entities from non-associated third countries and international organizations, provided they meet the conditions outlined in the Horizon Europe Regulation and specific call requirements. Legal entities must have recognized legal personality or equivalent capacity to undertake obligations.
Beneficiaries and affiliated entities are required to register in the Participant Register to obtain a Participant Identification Code and undergo validation before signing the grant agreement. Affiliated entities may participate if they meet eligibility conditions, while associated partners can join without signing the grant agreement or claiming funding.
Entities without legal personality may exceptionally participate if their representatives can assume legal responsibilities and provide financial guarantees. EU bodies may be included unless otherwise restricted, and provisions exist for potential participation of the Joint Research Centre under agreed terms. Associations or groupings may participate as single beneficiaries or without legal personality, though implementation by individual members requires their formal inclusion in the consortium.
For more information, visit European Commission.
