What is Clean Sky?

Clean Sky is Europe’s technology research programme designed to fulfil its commitment to make air travel more sustainable. By pioneering technological breakthroughs, it aims to reach the Advisory Council for Aeronautics Research in Europe’s environmental goals for air transport.*

It is backed by the European Union, as well as Europe’s leading aerospace manufacturers. Smaller enterprises, universities and research centres are also participating. With a budget of €1.6 billion – equally funded by the European Commission and the Industry – to spend in the seven years until 2014, Clean Sky is one of Europe’s largest research programmes.

While the initiative started in 2006, the research project was officially launched in February 2008.

How is EADS involved?

EADS will play a leading role in many areas of the programme. Airbus, Eurocopter and EADS CASA in particular will drive three of the six technology domains: Airbus for Smart Fixed-Wing Aircraft; EADS CASA for Green Regional Aircraft; Eurocopter for Green Rotorcraft.

EADS Innovation Works and ATR are also on board.

What are the other areas identified for study?

Three other areas have been identified for study: Eco-Design for Aircraft and Systems; Sustainable and Green Engines; Systems for Green Operations.

To measure progress, there is also a group for evaluating the environmental impact of the technologies developed.

How effective will this be?

Clean Sky represents a substantial commitment by Europe and its aerospace industry, recognising that a path might be possible towards decoupling the current upwards trend in aircraft environmental impacts from the growth of the sector. There is no single solution to the problem, but by improving technology and operations meaningful improvements in aircraft efficiency can be made.

Clean Sky is essential for developing sustainable, affordable and clean aeronautics and air transport.

* 50% reduction of CO₂; 80% reduction of NO_x; 50% reduction of external noise, and a green design, manufacturing, maintenance and disposal product life cycle by 2020.