International Test Arena launches two new calls for zero- and low-emission aircraft

The new calls build on the experience gained through the Test Arena so far. The first demonstration project, with Bristow Norway and BETA Technologies, was completed in 2025. A second project with Bristow Norway and Electra is underway, with flight demonstrations of Electra’s hybrid-electric ultra-short take-off and landing aircraft planned for the third quarter of 2027.

“The technology is developing quickly. Our task is to make sure the aviation system is ready when the new aircrafts enter operation. These new calls will help us understand what different aircraft and operating concepts require from airports, airspace, energy infrastructure and regulation, and prepare for future commercial operations,” says Erik By, Head of International Test Arena at Avinor.

Regional aircraft and VTOL

The first call targets zero- and low-emission regional aircraft with nine or more passenger seats, including battery-electric, hydrogen and hybrid concepts. It focuses on aircraft relevant to regional flights of less than 1,000 kilometres.

Selected projects will initially enter the Virtual Test Arena, a pre-project phase exploring operational concepts, infrastructure requirements, regulation and business cases. Projects that reach sufficient maturity may later proceed to testing and demonstration in the Physical Test Arena.

The second call targets novel zero- and low-emission piloted VTOL aircraft for passenger and cargo operations. It is aimed primarily at more mature aircraft concepts that can be demonstrated in an airport and airspace environment. Demonstrations are expected in 2027 or by 2028 at the latest.

One coordinated testing environment

The International Test Arena for zero- and low-emission aviation was established jointly by Avinor and the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) of Norway and brings together airports, airspace, energy infrastructure and regulatory facilitation in one coordinated process.

Avinor facilitates access to relevant infrastructure and airspace services, while the Civil Aviation Authority of Norway provides regulatory guidance and can establish a regulatory sandbox tailored to individual projects. Locations are selected based on the needs of each project.

"To accelerate the innovations from prototyping to market entry, we need to work with the industry for a more efficient and safe integration of new technologies in a well prepared environment. Running demonstration programmes with a systemic approach, we regard these RFPs as a strong opportunity for OEMs, airlines, regulators and other aviation stakeholders to take the next important steps toward zero- and low-emission aviation" says Jan Petter Steinland, Strategic Analysis and Transformation Manager, CAA Norway.

Applications open until 30 November

The calls are open to aircraft manufacturers, developers, airlines, operators and industry consortia. The deadline for proposals is 30 November 2026 at 16:00 CET.

Full RFP documents here: 

748671-2026 - Competition - TED

745536-2026 - Competition - TED