We are pleased to announce that applications are now open for the Digital European Sky Awards 2026.

These awards celebrate the SESAR JU projects and people turning Europe’s vision for a Digital European Sky into reality. From exploratory research to industrial innovation and real-world demonstrators, they recognise achievements making a difference across air traffic management.

The Awards will be presented during the SESAR JU Annual Conference on 12 October 2026 in Brussels.

Why apply?

This is your opportunity to:

• gain high-level visibility across Europe’s aviation and policy community  
• showcase your results to key stakeholders, decision-makers and potential adopters
• position your work as a reference for future implementation and best practice
• receive recognition at EU level for your team’s achievements
• build momentum for your project through communication and promotion around the awards

Who can apply?

All SESAR JU projects closing by 12 October 2026 are invited to apply.

Award categories:

• Exploratory research award – for projects pushing boundaries and rethinking what’s possible
• Industrial research award – for innovations delivering measurable results and paving the way to best practice
• Demonstration award – for mature solutions showing clear operational impact and deployment potential
• People’s choice award – voted live by the audience during the ceremony

If your project is delivering results, challenging the status quo, or driving real change — this is your chance to get the recognition it deserves.

Projects covering multiple solutions may submit more than one application — one contribution per solution.

Submit your application by Thursday 11 June COB!

Don’t miss out:

You can also showcase your work at the Digital European Sky Marketplace exhibition during the Annual Conference.
Submit here your contribution by 11 June (COB)