Europe releases catalyst funds for ATM innovation and integration of new entrants

The first call for Catalyst Funding in Air Traffic Management (ATM) is officially open according to the SESAR ENGAGE 2 programme. Details are available on the dedicated website where catalyst funding is intended to support focused projects. The focus is on maturing exploratory research further towards applications and operational contexts with a clear European dimension. These projects may address the corresponding thematic challenges. Other ‘open’ proposals, for projects moving solutions closer towards industry goals and objectives, and towards higher TRLs, will also be considered for catalyst funding, although some priority will be given to those aligned with thematic challenges.

Proposals should demonstrate an original contribution to the state of the art, either supporting a thematic challenge, or be ‘open’. The thematic challenges were introduced at the 13th SESAR Innovation Days conference and are described on the Engage 2 website (see https://engagektn.eu/thematic-challenge/), namely:

• thematic challenge 1: Climate impact analysis and mitigation for ATM-related non-CO2 emissions
• thematic challenge 2: Passenger-centric digital airport
• thematic challenge 3: Disruptive ATM system modernization
• thematic challenge 4: Integration of new entrants

The Awards Board is comprised of Engage 2 consortium members, the SESAR 3 Joint Undertaking, ASDA (Association for the Scientific Development of ATM in Europe), CANSO and industry partners (without conflicting interests). It is chaired by EUROCONTROL, with a casting vote.

Submit your proposal comprising a project description and administrative form to engage2-coordinator@dblue.it with the subject line “Catalyst Call.”

Opening date: 11 March 2024

Call deadline: 13 May 2024

Expected duration of participation: 12 months

Total funding available: €480000.00

Project acronym: Engage 2

Grant agreement number: 101114648