The Andalusian Regional Government has signed a cooperation protocol with the European Clean Aviation Joint Undertaking programme with the aim of developing more sustainable and competitive aeronautical technologies. Signed by the Andalusian ministers for universities and industry, together with the programme’s executive director, the agreement includes the development of a strategic roadmap aligned with the Clean Aviation Research and Innovation Agenda. The Regional Government committed to mobilising up to €15 million for regional projects in February 2025, and has recently approved an additional investment of €17.3 million for the creation of the Net Zero Jerez Aeronautical Hub.
The protocol forms part of the Andalusian Aerospace Strategy, seeking to establish the region as a leading example of sustainable aviation in Europe. As well as promoting employment and talent, the alliance will give Andalusian companies and technology centres access to international collaboration opportunities within the Clean Aviation framework. The Regional Ministry of Universities has highlighted that the aerospace sector accounts for over 13% of Andalusia’s industrial GDP and has already received €72 million in financial support, co-financed by ERDF funds.
The Minister for Industry emphasised that Andalusia has the potential to become a leading European producer of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) thanks to its biomass resources. The regional government is set to launch a dedicated programme to promote this production and its associated value chain. By joining forces with Clean Aviation, Andalusia is following in the footsteps of other European regions that have already signed agreements, including Occitania, Campania, Piedmont, Hamburg and Portugal. This move is in line with the objectives of the European RefuelEU Aviation regulation and will help to pave the way for carbon-neutral aviation.
