Demonstration of low power Ice Protection System technology

Overview

Funding for the development and ground demonstration of a low-power ice protection system for hybrid-electric regional aircraft, targeting lightweight, low-drag solutions compatible with non-propulsive power levels. Intended for consortia capable of advancing technology to TRL5 under EASA CS-25 icing conditions.

Who Can Apply

Consortia of legal entities established in eligible countries, including EU Member States, Horizon Europe Associated Countries, and select non-EU/non-associated countries with specific funding provisions. Individual applicants or single entities are not eligible.

Funding Details

Maximum grant amount: 60,000,000 EUR. Funding rate and co-funding requirements are specified in the Clean Aviation Work Programme and Horizon Europe General Annexes.

What Is Funded

Development and ground demonstration of a low-power ice protection system for wings and empennage of ultra-efficient regional aircraft. Activities must align with hybrid-electric propulsion compatibility, lightweight design, and low-drag solutions. Full details are provided in the topic description document.

Technology / Maturity Requirements

Projects must advance technology to Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 5, demonstrating system functionality in a relevant environment under EASA CS-25 icing conditions.

Key Dates

• Open date: 2026-03-30
• Deadline: 2026-05-18T22:00:00Z

Application Process (High-Level)

Single-stage submission via the Funding & Tenders Portal. Proposal templates and evaluation forms will be available upon call opening (late March 2026). Applicants are advised to consult the Q&A documents released on 2026-02-17 and 2026-04-17 for updates.

Geographic Scope & Language

Open to eligible countries as defined in Annex B of the Horizon Europe Work Programme General Annexes. Applications must be submitted in English.

Notes

Proposals must adhere to page limits and layout requirements specified in Annex A and Annex E of the Horizon Europe Work Programme General Annexes. Applicants should review the Clean Aviation Work Programme, model consortium agreement, and evaluation criteria prior to submission. Periodic checks of the topic updates section are recommended for document revisions.