Deadline Date: May 19, 2026
The European Commission invites proposals to develop an advanced airframe concept supporting the Ultra-Efficient Regional Aircraft (UERA) with entry into service targeted by 2035.
The focus areas of this opportunity include the design and optimisation of the overall airframe architecture covering wing, fuselage, and empennage, integration of hybrid-electric propulsion compatibility, development of lightweight structures and advanced aerodynamics, incorporation of enabling systems such as flight control, high-lift and ice protection systems, achievement of TRL6 through ground test demonstrations, compliance with certification requirements including CS-25 and CRL4, contribution to CO2 emissions reduction and SAF compatibility, noise performance compliance, and establishment of design models and integration pathways with parallel Clean Aviation projects.
The project aims to demonstrate a fully integrated advanced airframe capable of achieving Technology Readiness Level 6 through comprehensive ground testing. This includes validation of wing, fuselage, empennage, and key enabling systems under representative operational conditions. The airframe must support hybrid-electric propulsion integration, considering constraints such as batteries, thermal management, and energy systems, while ensuring compatibility with the broader UERA concept.
The funding for this topic is capped at a maximum EU contribution of EUR 40 million, with only one project expected to be funded depending on evaluation outcomes and complementarity of proposals. Each project must not exceed the maximum funding limit, as proposals requesting higher amounts will be deemed non-eligible and excluded from evaluation.
Additionally, at least 15% of the total EU contribution must be allocated to Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), Research and Technology Organisations (RTOs), and universities with beneficiary status, in line with Horizon Europe rules across EU Member States and associated countries. Proposals failing to meet this requirement will also be considered non-eligible. The indicative project duration is up to 48 months.
For more information, visit European Commission.
