Over 40 new innovative projects across the UK will receive a share of £33.5m in funding from the Future Flight Challenge, part of the Industrial Strategy Challenge Fund, delivered by UK Research and Innovation. (Also see Heathrow innovation move in this week's BTN.)

These are being funded to put the UK in the driving seat for developing the next aviation revolution.

The projects cover the use of drones capable of delivering Covid-19 medical supplies to remote areas, to technology to enable remote inspections of infrastructure and construction sites.

The projects will also tackle key infrastructure and air traffic management challenges to ensure the UK maintains its exceptional air safety record and delivers practical and integrated solutions.

Business and Industry minister Nadhim Zahawi, said: “As the UK leads the way in the aviation revolution, these bold proposals showcase the pioneering spirit of the UK’s aerospace and aviation industries in solving global issues from climate change, to getting vital medications to those in need.

This funding for the sector is a testament to the vital role aviation continues to play in maintaining our well-earned reputation for research and development excellence. I look forward to seeing these concepts being developed into tangible products over the coming months and years.”

Gary Cutts, Future Flight Challenge director said: “At this challenging time for the international aviation industry, it is a great testament to the UK’s drive and ambition that we had such a strong response to the first funded Future Flight competition. The breadth, quality and creativity of the bids has been exceptional and the economic and social benefits offered are significant.”

Please see BTN articles:
Drone delivery by air
Drone on – more developments 
Coventry site for 'airport'

www.ukri.org