Bristol Airport launches 2026 innovation fund

Image courtesy Bristol Airport

This strategic fund, focusing on the South West region, aims to support organisations developing cutting-edge technologies that will drive the aviation industry towards zero carbon emission flights. 

The ACT Programme officially opened today with submissions accepted until 29th May 2026.  

The ACT Programme is a dedicated fund supporting innovative projects that address Scope 3 emissions associated with Bristol Airport’s operations. These emissions include aircraft, passenger surface access, employee commuting, ground transport, waste, and construction. 

The Programme has been running since 2022, with recent projects including a groundbreaking feasibility study by Ultima Forma for a liquid hydrogen refuelling system at the Airport and a study by Equilibrion exploring nuclear-enabled sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) production in the South West, which could reduce life-cycle emissions by over 95%. 

• In 2026, the ACT Programme will focus on supporting innovation in priority areas: 
• Development of alternative fuels (e.g., biofuels, hydrogen, synthetic fuels).
• Electrification of airport technologies, including charging infrastructure and batteries.
• Local carbon offset initiatives with high integrity.
• Innovative technologies with scalable potential to reduce aviation emissions. 

Infrastructure and operational improvements to enable low/zero-emission flights and enhance energy efficiency. 

While the programme focuses on Scope 3 emissions, proposals that deliver co-benefits for Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions—such as on-site fuel and electricity use—are also welcomed. 

Hannah Pollard, Head of Sustainability, said: “Our region has a unique cluster of aerospace companies, expertise, and world-leading universities. The ACT Programme provides them with funding for innovative ways to reduce emissions, with the option of the Airport being available as a testbed for new technology. 

“We’ve supported some hugely important projects that have moved UK aviation forwards, and we’re excited to see what applications we receive in 2026.” 

The ACT Programme is open to any organisation or company – applications can be made through the Bristol Airport website by 29 May 2026. 

Bristol Airport is committed to achieving net zero airport operations by 2030. It took a major step towards that goal in March 2026, with the announcement of a £10million, state-of-the-art energy centre. This new facility will use air source heat pumps and enable for gas heating to be removed from the terminal.