Thoughts on the government’s recent green paper on industrial strategy
As the global urgency to address climate change intensifies, the UK faces a significant opportunity to position itself at the forefront of zero-emission aviation. The industrial strategy green paper highlights the government’s commitment to addressing both economic growth and environmental sustainability. For Cranfield Aerospace Solutions, this is a framework that underscores the importance of innovation in achieving national objectives. Zero-emission aviation is a prime example of a sector where the UK can build on its existing strengths to lead globally, ensuring that we remain competitive in a rapidly evolving international market.
In this blog, we explore how zero-emission aviation aligns with the goals of the Industrial Strategy, advocating for a coordinated, cross-sectoral approach to achieve success. By capitalising on the synergies between innovation, business needs, and government policy, the UK can not only decarbonise aviation but also drive growth and resilience across the economy. This strategy is not just about responding to challenges; it’s about seizing the opportunities of the next decade, ensuring that the UK remains at the forefront of global progress in aviation decarbonisation.
Aviation at a crossroads
The aviation industry is on the cusp of a technological revolution akin to the advent of the jet age. Efforts to create commercially viable, zero-emission technology solutions for aviation have the potential to redefine global air travel. Yet, while optimism abounds, the challenges remain daunting:
The Climate Change Committee (CCC) and the International Council on Clean Transportation (ICCT) have repeatedly warned that without significant acceleration in technological development, regulatory alignment, and investment, the aviation sector’s goal of net-zero by 2050 will remain unattainable. The challenge is made more difficult by the fragmented nature of the aerospace and aviation sectors, where manufacturers, airlines, airports, and regulators often work in isolation.
At Cranfield Aerospace Solutions, we are addressing this challenge by focusing on smaller, short-range aircraft as the essential proving ground for hydrogen-electric propulsion systems. These aircraft, ideal for regional connectivity, can serve as a catalyst for broader decarbonisation efforts.
The green gaper: A call for a systems-wide approach
The industrial strategy green paper introduces a much-needed “systems-wide approach” to industrial development. This approach recognises that decarbonising aviation is not solely a technological challenge but a systemic one, requiring coordinated action across manufacturing, operations, infrastructure, and regulation.
Historically, aerospace and aviation have been dealt with separately. This fragmented approach is no longer viable. Hydrogen-electric propulsion systems, for instance, cannot succeed without parallel investments in hydrogen production, refuelling infrastructure, and updated regulatory frameworks.
We need to take care that aerospace and aviation are not regarded as two separate entities within the broader industrial strategy. A holistic approach is essential for nurturing innovation and enabling the seamless integration of new technologies across both aircraft and airport/airline operations. It is imperative that the government establishes a unified, cross-sectoral framework early in the development of the final strategy and sector plan. This effort should extend beyond HM Treasury and the Department for Business and Trade, ensuring active involvement from departments such as the Department for Transport, due to its pivotal role in overseeing aviation decarbonisation and the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, given the importance of upstream hydrogen production and supply.
A coordinated strategy is particularly critical given the global nature of the aerospace industry. As countries like the U.S., Germany, and China ramp up their investments in green aviation, the UK must act decisively to maintain its competitive edge.
A bold role for government: Catalysing innovation and investment
Moving beyond fiscal support
Innovation in the aviation sector has historically depended on significant government intervention. The development of the jet engine, the rise of Airbus, and the Concorde programme were made possible by bold public investment. Today, the stakes are higher than ever, and the government must adopt a similarly ambitious approach.
Fiscal support, such as grants and tax incentives, will remain important. However, regulatory frameworks and policy targets are equally crucial. Countries like Norway and regions like California and Hawaii, have demonstrated the power of ambitious goals. By committing to zero-emission domestic flights by 2040 and 2045, these regions have are catalysing private sector investment and accelerated technological development.
The UK should follow suit by adopting an accelerated timeline for zero-emission domestic flights. Such a commitment would not only drive innovation in hydrogen-electric propulsion but also send a powerful signal to global investors and innovators that the UK is serious about leading in green aviation.
Unlocking financial support
One of the greatest barriers to zero-emission aviation is the high upfront cost of developing and deploying new technologies. To overcome this, the government should ensure the National Wealth Fund plays a prominent role in supporting emerging green technologies, including zero-emission aviation. This fund could provide targeted, long-term financing for high-risk projects, bridging the gap where private investment is insufficient.
The strengthened Office for Investment (OFI) and the recommendations of the Harrington Review are encouraging steps toward attracting foreign direct investment. However, success will depend on addressing resistance within parts of Whitehall, particularly from the Treasury.
Infrastructure: The backbone of zero-emission aviation
Technological innovation alone will not achieve the transition to zero-emission flight. The success of hydrogen-electric propulsion and other clean technologies depends on the development of supporting infrastructure, including hydrogen production facilities and new refuelling procedures.
The complexity of these challenges demands collaboration on an unprecedented scale. A Hydrogen Commercial Flight Trials Programme, for example, could unite manufacturers, infrastructure providers, and regulators in a shared mission to demonstrate the feasibility of hydrogen-powered flight. Such a programme would not only accelerate technological readiness but also build public confidence in zero-emission aviation.
By investing in these partnerships, the UK can secure a first-mover advantage in the global hydrogen economy, positioning itself as a leader in both green aviation and broader hydrogen technologies.
Cementing new capabilities: A vision for the future
The transition to zero-emission aviation is about more than reducing emissions; it is an opportunity to redefine the future of the aerospace industry. By embracing ambitious policies and sustained investment, the UK can create new industrial capabilities that will underpin its economy for decades to come.
However, this vision can only be realised if the UK acts swiftly and decisively. Competitors in Europe, Asia, and North America are rapidly advancing their green aviation strategies. To maintain its leadership position, the UK must prioritise infrastructure development, supply chain resilience, and regulatory innovation.
A defining moment for aerospace
The UK is at a defining moment in its aerospace history. The transition to zero-emission aviation represents not just a technological challenge but a national imperative. Success will require a comprehensive and coordinated effort, combining bold regulatory targets, sustained investment, and close collaboration across government, industry, and academia.
Achieving zero-emission aviation is a collective challenge, demanding collaboration, ambition, and innovation from policymakers, industry leaders, and visionaries alike. By working together, we can turn this goal into a reality and build a sustainable future.
Now is the time to act – let’s position the UK at the forefront of transforming the skies for the generations ahead.