Kick-off for 18 new SESAR exploratory research projects

On 19 September, 18 exploratory research projects officially kicked off. Selected for funding within the framework of its ambitious Digital European Sky research and innovation programme, the projects address a wide range of topics aimed at generating innovative concepts, methodologies and technologies, all with a view to making air traffic management in Europe smarter and more sustainable. The projects represent a total investment of EUR 26 million by the aviation industry and the European Union through Horizon Europe.

The aim with the selected projects is to foster new and innovative ideas connected to EU policy to transform air traffic management in Europe, as well as encouraging coordinated exchange of knowledge and stimulating the future ATM skilled workforce. It is composed of two work areas, namely "ATM excellence science research and outreach" and "ATM application-oriented research".

The call topics are part of the research and innovation priorities outlined in the SESAR 3 JU's multi-annual work programme and in the more recently published bi-annual work programme. They cover a wide range of areas that are needed in order to deliver the Digital European Sky, according to the timeframe of the European ATM Master Plan.

The projects were selected as a result of a call for proposals launched in 2023 followed by a rigorous evaluation of the submitted proposals by independent experts. The official launch of the projects is subject to the completion of grant preparation in the coming weeks.