Grants for aerospace research and technology

Projects such as high-performance engines, new wing designs, and ultra-lightweight materials to reduce fuel consumption will be supported by the Aerospace Technology Institute (ATI).

This publicly and privately funded work aims to securing future manufacturing in the UK.

Government grants totalling £200mln, delivered through the Aerospace Technology Institute (ATI) programme, will be matched by industry to create the total investment of £400mln.

Projects include -

• Airbus project - Wing of Tomorrow will develop new technologies and manufacturing processes to produce the next generation composite wings. A critical part of the programme is to develop capability to manufacture more efficient, light weight carbon-fibre wings, at a rate much higher than previously possible. Looks at more efficient wing assembly, systems installation, digital design processes and a range of innovative wing concepts including folding wing tips
• Rolls-Royce-led engine projects - development of the UltraFan engine technology, improving efficiency and environmental performance of aircraft
• Safran Electrical & Power UK (Pitstone) - the Aerospace Electric Propulsion Equipment, Controls & Machines (AEPEC) project will research how new electrical power systems can lead to more efficient energy usage
• Williams Advanced Engineering  - the AIRTEK project in a collaboration with JPA Design and SWS Certification,  will develop ultra-lightweight seat structures for air travel, reducing the weight of aircraft

The government also announced the FlyZero initiative, study will receive government funding and bring together around 100 experts to tackle issues involved in designing and building a commercially successful zero-emission aircraft.