European Commission's call for evidence on a new European Aviation and Aerospace Strategy

The European Commission plans to develop a new EU Aviation and Aeronautics Strategy following the evolution of these sectors over the last ten years, particularly due to the multiple crises they have faced and the increased global competition.

To this end, on 23 April 2026 it launched a call for evidence inviting citizens, businesses and stakeholders to submit their comments by 21 May 2026.

Current European Union strategy

The European Union’s current Aviation and Aerospace Strategy was adopted in 2015. In its Communication on Aviation Strategy for Europe, the Commission’s aim was to ensure that European aviation and aerospace remain competitive, sustainable and global leaders against a backdrop of strong growth in air traffic. In 2015, the Commission’s three main priorities were:

• to tackle growing markets and ensure fair competition;
• removing barriers to growth and improving the efficiency of the system;
• maintaining high standards of safety, security and protection.

Why a new strategy?

Since 2015, the international aviation landscape has changed significantly. The aviation and aerospace sectors are now facing:

• rising energy costs;
• increased geopolitical tensions and security challenges;
• ongoing disruptions to supply chains;
• increasingly intense international competition; and
• increasing demands for decarbonisation.

In this context of greater instability and uncertainty, the Commission considers it necessary to carry out a comprehensive update of the European policy framework.

Key objectives of the future strategy

The new strategy will aim to establish a comprehensive and coherent framework to strengthen the European aviation and aerospace sectors, focusing on the following objectives:

• Strengthening the EU’s competitiveness and strategic autonomy.
• Supporting the European Union’s continued industrial leadership by transforming the aviation and aerospace sectors for the coming decades through Research and Innovation policy (R&I).
• Boost the large-scale deployment of unmanned aircraft (drones).
• Strengthen the sector’s resilience and security in the face of threats such as GNSS interference, drone incursions, the use of aviation for irregular migration, and potential future major crises.
• Optimize the capacity and efficiency of the European air transport network.
• Better serve passengers and citizens.
• Address social and labor market challenges.

Challenges and significance of this new Strategy

Aviation and aerospace are key strategic sectors for the European economy, territorial connectivity and industrial autonomy, but they have been particularly exposed to the successive crises (pandemic, energy, etc.) of recent years.

This consultation marks an important preparatory step for the European Union’s new strategy in this area. Indeed, the requested contributions could influence not only the strategy but also any new European legislation concerning the aviation and aerospace sector.

The consultation will remain open until 21 May 2026 via the “Have Your Say” portal, in all official EU languages.