ÿ�մ���

ASD today presented “A European Industrial Strategy for Civil Aeronautics”, a comprehensive blueprint urging EU institutions and Member States to recognise civil aeronautics as a strategic sector and to act decisively to keep Europe at the forefront of aviation while enabling the transition to climate-neutral flight by 2050.

The strategy was formally handed over by ASD President Micael Johansson to European Commissioner for Sustainable Transport and Tourism Apostolos Tzitzikostas during opening of the ASD Brussels Conference. 

Civil aeronautics is a vital enabler for Europe, not only connecting citizens and regions, but serving as the industrial lung of European sovereignty. It drives €109 billion in annual exports, and sustains the critical innovation, skills and manufacturing base that are essential for European defence and security. This industrial edge is also central to delivering Europe’s climate ambitions, with European manufacturers driving global efforts to decarbonise aviation.

Building on its world-class aircraft, engine, equipment, and air traffic management manufacturers, the European civil aeronautics industry remains one of the few high-tech sectors where Europe leads globally. This leadership cannot be taken for granted. Global competitors are investing aggressively, supply chains face unprecedented disruptions, industry is grappling with labour shortages, and time is pressing to deliver on the European aviation industry’s decarbonisation roadmap.

Meeting the EU’s climate-neutrality target for aviation by 2050 will require a radical transformation of technologies, infrastructure, and industrial capabilities. Massive and long-term private and public investment is required - together with strong and coordinated policy support - to deliver sustainable aviation while preserving Europe’s pioneering position.

ASD President Micael Johansson stated:

“Civil aeronautics is a critical capability for Europe’s economy, security, and resilience. A dedicated EU industrial strategy is now essential to safeguard its strategic role and its global leadership, maintain high-skilled jobs, and accelerate the transition to climate-neutral aviation. With today’s blueprint, ASD aims to provide a clear roadmap to help guide Europe’s next steps. Working in a true European approach is the only way to effectively address the challenges ahead and secure our position on the global stage. ASD stands ready to work with the European Commission and Member States to make this vision a reality.”

ASD Secretary General Camille Grand added:

“This strategy is a clear call to action. Europe cannot afford complacency at a time when global competitors are accelerating investment and innovation. Delivering climate-neutral aviation by 2050 is not just an environmental imperative - it is an industrial challenge that will define Europe’s technological sovereignty and economic strength for decades to come. The benefits of the proposed industrial strategy will go beyond civil aeronautics and boost Europe’s competitiveness in multiple domains, such as IT, defence and space.”

Nine Pillars for Action:

1. Recognise civil aeronautics as a strategic sector for Europe. Aviation connects regions, drives trade, and represents European technological excellence. EU policy must reflect its strategic importance.
2. Accelerate innovation and double EU research funding. ASD calls for at least €6 billion in ring-fenced funding for civil aviation research in the next Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF), supporting Clean Aviation, SESAR, and collaborative research.
3. Strengthen the industrial base and supply chain resilience. Europe must secure access to critical raw materials, address uncompetitive energy costs, and modernise production through advanced materials, additive manufacturing, and digitalisation.
4. Modernise Air Traffic Management (ATM). Accelerate SESAR deployment to manage growing traffic and reduce emissions, ensuring Europe remains a global leader in ATM technologies.
5. Support civil aviation decarbonisation. Implement an EU-wide strategy for Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF), hydrogen, and electrification, backed by long-term investment and regulatory certainty.
6. Simplify and reduce regulatory burden. Avoid over-regulation that undermines competitiveness, streamline reporting requirements, and ensure proportionate rules for emerging technologies such as AI.
7. Continue and strengthen international cooperation. Reinforce ICAO engagement and bilateral agreements to promote European technologies and secure a level playing field.
8. Address the growing skills challenge. Launch EU-supported reskilling programmes, promote STEM careers, and harmonise cross-border credentials.
9. Leverage "Team Europe" for global leadership. Strengthen cooperation among EU institutions, agencies, Member States, and industry, and ensure EASA is fully equipped to certify new technologies on time and maintain Europe’s global credibility in aviation safety.