Assembly Resolution A40-27
Innovation in Aviation
During the 40th Session of the Assembly, Member States adopted Resolution A40-27, Innovation in Aviation, which recognises that innovations carry significant potential in improving aviation safety, efficiency, security, facilitation, environmental sustainability, and economic development of air transport.
ICAO Strategic Plan 2026–2050
Safe Skies, Sustainable Future
A safe, secure and sustainable international civil aviation system that connects the world for the benefit of all nations and people. With air traffic projected to reach 12.4 billion passengers by 2050, ICAO's Strategic Plan guides the sector toward a safer, more efficient, and environmentally sustainable future.
12.4B
Passengers by 2050
5%
CO₂ reduction by 2030
193
Member States
Three Essential Aspirations by 2050
2030
Zero Fatalities
Achieve zero aviation fatalities through enhanced safety standards, data-driven oversight, and proactive risk management across all Member States.
2040
Net-Zero Pathways
Establish clear net-zero carbon pathways for international aviation, accelerating SAF adoption, hydrogen propulsion, and electric aircraft technologies.
2050
Seamless Connectivity
Deliver seamless, inclusive global connectivity for 12.4 billion passengers with no country left behind in the digital and operational transformation.
Four Dimensions of Innovation
01
Standards & Recommended Practices
Developing and updating SARPs to accommodate new technologies such as RPAS, AAM, hydrogen propulsion, and AI-assisted operations across all aviation domains.
02
Regulatory Frameworks
Creating enabling regulatory environments that allow Member States to safely integrate innovations into their national aviation systems at appropriate pace.
03
Capacity Building
Ensuring all Member States, especially developing nations, have the technical capacity to adopt and benefit from aviation innovations through targeted assistance.
04
Industry Engagement
Partnering with industry, academia, and start-ups through the Innovation Collaboration Framework (ICF) to co-develop solutions and accelerate deployment.
Six Strategic Goals
GOAL 1
Every Flight Is Safe and Secure
GOAL 2
Aviation Is Environmentally Sustainable
GOAL 3
Seamless Mobility for All
GOAL 4
No Country Left Behind
GOAL 5
Air Law Addresses All Challenges
GOAL 6
Economic Development of Air Transport
Innovation Policy Timeline
September 2016
ICAO Innovation Symposium — First dedicated innovation event
Event
October 2019
Assembly Resolution A40-27 adopted — Innovation in Aviation mandate
Policy
March 2020
Innovation Collaboration Framework (ICF) established
Programme
June 2021
First ICAO Innovation Webinar Series launched
Programme
November 2022
Direct Submission pilot — 47 innovations received from industry
Programme
May 2023
ICAO Innovation Fair 2023 — Global Horizons
Event
January 2024
FINVEST@ETAF Innovation Hub launched for start-up funding
Programme
March 2025
ICAO Policy on Innovation published (March 2025)
Policy
May 2025
ICAO Innovation Fair 2025 — Inclusive Innovations for Aviation
Event
September 2025
A41 Assembly — Innovation progress report and updated resolution
Policy
January 2026
ICAO Strategic Plan 2026–2050 implementation begins
Policy
2026
RPAS SARP Package — Target entry into force
Standards
Command Centre
Real-time overview of the ICAO Innovation Programme
What is the Command Centre?
The Command Centre is your real-time executive overview of the entire ICAO Innovation Programme. It consolidates key performance indicators (KPIs), the Standardization Roadmap Pipeline, and four analytical charts into a single view — giving decision-makers an instant snapshot of programme health without needing to navigate individual sections.
💡 How to use it: Scan the KPI cards at the top for headline numbers, then review the pipeline to see how many innovations are at each stage. Use the four charts to spot imbalances — for example, if most innovations are 'Active' but few are 'Completed', the programme may need acceleration.
15
Total Innovations
11
Active Innovations
13
Completed Tasks
10
Pending Tasks
7
ICAO Regions
34
Industry Partners
Standardization Roadmap Pipeline
1
Horizon Scan
2
Before Gate 1
4
Passed Gate 1
8
Work Programme
Innovations by Status
Innovations by Category
Task Progress
Alignment to Strategic Goals
Inventory of Innovations
What is the Inventory of Innovations?
This is the master register of all innovation initiatives tracked under the ICAO Innovation Programme, aligned with Assembly Resolution A40-27. Each entry records the innovation's title, technology category, current roadmap stage, responsible governance body, and target Entry into Service (EIS) date. It is the authoritative source of record for programme scope.
💡 How to use it: Use the Status and Governance Body filters to narrow the list. Use the search box to find a specific innovation by keyword. Click any row to see full details. Export the filtered view for reporting purposes.
| ID | Innovation | Category | Status | TRL | EIS | Roadmap Stage | Strategic Goals |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| INV-001 | Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS) Regulatory Framework Development of comprehensive SARPs for RPAS operations in non-segregated airspac... |
Emerging Technologies | Active | 7 | 2026 | Work Programme | Every Flight Is Safe and Secure Seamless Mobility for All |
| INV-002 | Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) Standards Establishment of international standards for Urban Air Mobility (UAM) and Region... |
Emerging Technologies | Active | 5 | 2027 | Passed Gate 1 | Every Flight Is Safe and Secure Seamless Mobility for All Economic Development of Air Transport |
| INV-003 | Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) Standardization Development of fuel quality standards, certification pathways, and accounting me... |
Environmental | Active | 8 | 2025 | Work Programme | Aviation Is Environmentally Sustainable Economic Development of Air Transport |
| INV-004 | Artificial Intelligence Applications in Air Traffic Management Framework for safe integration of AI and machine learning tools in ATM operation... |
Digital & AI | Active | 5 | 2028 | Passed Gate 1 | Every Flight Is Safe and Secure Seamless Mobility for All |
| INV-005 | Digital Identity and Biometrics in Aviation Security Standards for digital traveller identity, biometric verification at border contr... |
Security & Facilitation | Active | 7 | 2026 | Work Programme | Air Law Addresses All Challenges Seamless Mobility for All |
| INV-006 | Hydrogen-Powered Aircraft Certification Standards Development of airworthiness standards and operational requirements for hydrogen... |
Environmental | Pending | 4 | 2030 | Before Gate 1 | Aviation Is Environmentally Sustainable Every Flight Is Safe and Secure |
| INV-007 | High Altitude Platform Systems (HAPS) Operations Regulatory framework for HAPS operating in the stratosphere as communication rel... |
Emerging Technologies | Active | 5 | 2027 | Passed Gate 1 | Seamless Mobility for All No Country Left Behind |
| INV-008 | Aviation Cybersecurity Standards and Framework Comprehensive cybersecurity standards for avionics, ATM systems, airports, and s... |
Security & Facilitation | Active | 7 | 2025 | Work Programme | Air Law Addresses All Challenges Every Flight Is Safe and Secure |
| INV-009 | Integration of Space Operations with Aviation Standards addressing the interface between commercial space launch/re-entry oper... |
Emerging Technologies | Pending | 4 | 2029 | Before Gate 1 | Every Flight Is Safe and Secure Seamless Mobility for All |
| INV-010 | Remote and Digital Tower Operations Standards and recommended practices for remote tower operations, multiple remote... |
Digital & AI | Active | 7 | 2025 | Work Programme | Every Flight Is Safe and Secure Seamless Mobility for All No Country Left Behind |
| INV-011 | Digital Cargo and eFreight Standards Paperless air cargo standards including e-AWB, e-CSD, and digital customs docume... |
Digital & AI | Completed | 9 | 2024 | Work Programme | Seamless Mobility for All Economic Development of Air Transport |
| INV-012 | CORSIA Monitoring, Reporting and Verification Technical standards and guidance for the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme ... |
Environmental | Active | 8 | 2025 | Work Programme | Aviation Is Environmentally Sustainable Economic Development of Air Transport |
| INV-013 | Quantum-Enhanced Navigation and Positioning Exploration of quantum sensing technologies for GPS-independent navigation, incl... |
Emerging Technologies | Pending | 3 | 2032 | Horizon Scan | Every Flight Is Safe and Secure Seamless Mobility for All |
| INV-014 | Electric and Hybrid-Electric Aircraft Certification Airworthiness standards for battery-electric and hybrid-electric propulsion syst... |
Environmental | Active | 6 | 2028 | Passed Gate 1 | Aviation Is Environmentally Sustainable Every Flight Is Safe and Secure Economic Development of Air Transport |
| INV-015 | Innovation Collaboration Framework (ICF) ICAO platform for structured engagement with industry innovators, start-ups, and... |
Governance & Process | Active | 9 | 2023 | Work Programme | Economic Development of Air Transport No Country Left Behind Seamless Mobility for All |
Regional Innovation Activities
Click a region marker or country to explore innovation activities — zoom to country level
What is the World Map?
The World Map visualises the geographic distribution of ICAO innovation activities across all seven ICAO regions and 24 individual Member States. Large coloured circles represent ICAO regions (sized by activity count), while smaller dots mark countries with active projects. This view helps identify regional coverage gaps and ensures the programme is globally inclusive.
💡 How to use it: Click a large region circle to zoom to that region. Click a small country dot to see a popup with the country's specific projects. Click a region card in the right panel to filter the activity list. Use the zoom controls (+ / −) to navigate between global and country-level views.
UN Cartographic Note: The boundaries and names shown and the designations used on this map do not imply official endorsement or acceptance by the United Nations.
Task Tracker
What is the Task Tracker?
The Task Tracker monitors the operational delivery of the Innovation Programme at the working-level. It tracks individual tasks grouped by subject area (e.g. AI Framework, RPAS Standards, SAF Policy), shows completion rates, and displays key programme milestones on a chronological timeline. It is designed for programme managers and expert panel secretaries who need to track day-to-day progress.
💡 How to use it: Review the milestone timeline first to see what is overdue or upcoming. Then expand each task group to see individual task status. Tasks are colour-coded: green = completed, amber = in progress, red = overdue. The progress bar in each group header shows overall completion at a glance.
35
Total Tasks
13
Completed
12
In Progress
10
Pending
Key Milestones
September 2016
ICAO Innovation Symposium — First dedicated innovation event
Event
Completed
October 2019
Assembly Resolution A40-27 adopted — Innovation in Aviation mandate
Policy
Completed
March 2020
Innovation Collaboration Framework (ICF) established
Programme
Completed
June 2021
First ICAO Innovation Webinar Series launched
Programme
Completed
November 2022
Direct Submission pilot — 47 innovations received from industry
Programme
Completed
May 2023
ICAO Innovation Fair 2023 — Global Horizons
Event
Completed
January 2024
FINVEST@ETAF Innovation Hub launched for start-up funding
Programme
Completed
March 2025
ICAO Policy on Innovation published (March 2025)
Policy
Completed
May 2025
ICAO Innovation Fair 2025 — Inclusive Innovations for Aviation
Event
Completed
September 2025
A41 Assembly — Innovation progress report and updated resolution
Policy
Upcoming
January 2026
ICAO Strategic Plan 2026–2050 implementation begins
Policy
Upcoming
2026
RPAS SARP Package — Target entry into force
Standards
Upcoming
Task Groups
✓
Develop RPAS detect-and-avoid SARPs
Completed
ANB
Q4 2024
✓
Remote pilot licensing standards
Completed
ANB
Q2 2024
C2 link spectrum coordination with ITU
In Progress
ANB/TCB
Q2 2025
RPAS operations manual template for States
In Progress
ANB
Q3 2025
RPAS airworthiness certification standards
Pending
ANB
Q4 2025
Cross-border RPAS operations framework
Pending
ANB
Q1 2026
✓
eVTOL airworthiness standards scoping paper
Completed
ANB
Q1 2024
Vertiport design standards — initial draft
In Progress
ANB
Q3 2025
AAM operational concepts document
In Progress
ANB
Q4 2025
Noise standards for eVTOL aircraft
Pending
ANB
Q1 2026
AAM pilot training and licensing standards
Pending
ANB
Q2 2026
✓
SAF fuel quality standards update (Annex 16 Vol IV)
Completed
ANB
Q2 2024
✓
SAF blending and handling procedures
Completed
ANB
Q3 2024
CORSIA SAF accounting methodology update
In Progress
ANB
Q2 2025
SAF production pathway certification guidance
In Progress
ANB
Q4 2025
SAF supply chain traceability standards
Pending
ANB
Q2 2026
✓
AI safety assurance framework for ATM
Completed
ANB
Q4 2023
AI explainability requirements for ATC tools
In Progress
ANB
Q3 2025
Human-machine interface standards for AI-ATM
In Progress
ANB
Q4 2025
AI conflict detection performance standards
Pending
ANB
Q1 2026
Machine learning model validation guidance
Pending
ANB
Q2 2026
AI incident reporting and learning system
Pending
ANB
Q3 2026
✓
Aviation cybersecurity strategy implementation plan
Completed
ANB
Q1 2024
✓
Avionics cybersecurity SARPs (Annex 17 update)
Completed
ANB
Q3 2024
ATM system cybersecurity requirements
In Progress
ANB
Q2 2025
Airport cybersecurity baseline standards
In Progress
ANB
Q4 2025
Supply chain cybersecurity guidance
Pending
ANB
Q1 2026
✓
ICF governance structure established
Completed
Innovation Office
Q1 2023
✓
Direct Submission portal launched
Completed
Innovation Office
Q2 2023
✓
Innovation Webinar Series — 12 sessions completed
Completed
Innovation Office
Q4 2024
✓
FINVEST@ETAF hub operational
Completed
Innovation Office
Q1 2024
✓
Innovation Fair 2025 delivered
Completed
Innovation Office
Q2 2025
Generation 2050 student programme launched
In Progress
Innovation Office
Q3 2025
ICAO GPT internal AI assistant deployment
In Progress
Innovation Office
Q4 2025
Innovation Fair 2026 planning
Pending
Innovation Office
Q1 2026
Strategic Alignment
Mapping innovations to ICAO Strategic Goals 2026–2050
What is Strategic Alignment?
This view maps every innovation initiative to one or more of ICAO's six Strategic Goals from the 2026-2050 Strategic Plan: Safety, Security, Environmental Sustainability, Efficiency, Economic Development, and Innovation Management. It ensures the programme is balanced and that no strategic priority is neglected. The radar chart provides a visual comparison of innovation coverage versus task effort across all six goals.
💡 How to use it: Look at the radar chart to identify any 'thin' spokes — goals with few innovations or tasks assigned. Review the goal cards below to see which specific innovations support each goal. Use this view when preparing Council or Assembly reporting on strategic coherence.
Every Flight Is Safe and Secure
9 innovations
Aviation Is Environmentally Sustainable
4 innovations
Seamless Mobility for All
10 innovations
No Country Left Behind
3 innovations
Air Law Addresses All Challenges
2 innovations
Economic Development of Air Transport
6 innovations
Innovation Coverage by Strategic Goal
Innovation Maturity Scoring
Technology Readiness Level (TRL) assessment and Innovation Health Score for all 15 initiatives
What is TRL Maturity Scoring?
Technology Readiness Level (TRL) is a 9-point scale used internationally (NASA, EU, ICAO) to measure how mature a technology is — from TRL 1 (basic research) to TRL 9 (proven in operational environment). This tab scores each innovation on the TRL scale and calculates an overall Innovation Health Score (0-100) for the programme, helping leadership understand which innovations are ready for standardisation and which still need development investment.
💡 How to use it: The Health Score banner at the top gives you the programme-wide maturity signal. Scroll through the cards to see individual TRL ratings — innovations at TRL 7-9 are candidates for SARP development. Innovations at TRL 1-3 need research investment before standardisation can begin.
TRL Assessment by Innovation
RPAS Regulatory Framework
TRL 7
Prototype
System prototype demonstration
SARP DraftConsultationEntry into Force
Advanced Air Mobility (AAM)
TRL 5
Relevant Environment
Technology validated in relevant environment
Concept PaperSARP DraftAdoption
Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF)
TRL 8
Qualified System
System complete and qualified
Policy FrameworkBlending StandardsImplementation
AI in ATM
TRL 4
Lab Validation
Technology validated in laboratory
Pilot StudySARP DraftAdoption
Hydrogen Propulsion
TRL 3
Proof of Concept
Experimental proof of concept
Research PhaseConcept PaperSARP Draft
Digital Identity & Travel
TRL 7
Prototype
System prototype demonstration
Doc 9303 UpdatePilot DeploymentFull Rollout
HAPS & Space-Based ATC
TRL 4
Lab Validation
Technology validated in laboratory
Feasibility StudySARP DraftAdoption
Cybersecurity Standards
TRL 6
Demonstration
Technology demonstrated in relevant environment
Risk FrameworkSARP DraftAdoption
Electric Aircraft Standards
TRL 5
Relevant Environment
Technology validated in relevant environment
Concept PaperSARP DraftAdoption
Remote Tower Operations
TRL 7
Prototype
System prototype demonstration
Operational ConceptSARP AmendmentEntry into Force
Quantum Navigation
TRL 2
Technology Concept
Technology concept formulated
Research PhaseProof of ConceptSARP Draft
Biometric Facilitation
TRL 8
Qualified System
System complete and qualified
Standards UpdatePilot DeploymentGlobal Rollout
Urban Air Mobility Corridors
TRL 4
Lab Validation
Technology validated in laboratory
Concept PaperSARP DraftAdoption
Predictive Maintenance AI
TRL 6
Demonstration
Technology demonstrated in relevant environment
Pilot StudyStandards DraftImplementation
Innovation Collaboration Framework (ICF)
TRL 9
Operational System
Actual system proven in operational environment
Webinar SeriesDirect SubmissionFINVEST HubA42 Report
Innovation Gantt Chart
Timeline view of all innovation initiatives with milestones and schedule
What is a Gantt Chart?
A Gantt chart is a standard project management tool that displays tasks or initiatives as horizontal bars along a timeline. Each bar shows when an activity starts, how long it runs, and when it is expected to finish. In this dashboard, the Gantt chart shows the full lifecycle of every innovation initiative from 2020 to 2030, making it easy to see scheduling conflicts, overlapping workloads, and whether the programme is on track to meet its targets.
💡 How to use it: The vertical red line marks today's date — bars to the left of it should be completed; bars crossing it are currently active. Use the Status and Category filters to focus on a subset of innovations. Hover over any bar to see the start and end dates. Look for clusters of bars ending at the same time — these may indicate resource bottlenecks.
Innovation Timeline
Milestone
Today (May 2026)
Innovation
2020
2021
2022
2023
2024
2025
2026
2027
2028
2029
2030
Member State Engagement
Engagement levels of ICAO Member States in the Innovation Programme
What is the Member State Engagement Map?
ICAO has 193 Member States. This map tracks how each state is participating in the Innovation Programme — whether as a Lead State (driving an initiative), Active Participant (contributing to working groups), Observer (monitoring progress), or with no current engagement. Broad Member State participation is a key requirement of the ICAO Policy on Innovation (§5.3b) and Assembly Resolution A40-27, ensuring that innovations benefit all states equitably.
💡 How to use it: Use the engagement filter buttons to highlight states by participation level. Click any marker to see which initiatives that state is involved in. Pay particular attention to NCLB (No Country Left Behind) states — those with low engagement may need targeted outreach. The KPI cards at the top show overall engagement coverage.
Engagement Level
Lead
8
Active
14
Participating
28
Observer
143
Selected State
Click a marker to view state details.
Standards & SARP Tracker
ICAO Standards and Recommended Practices lifecycle — from concept to entry into force
What is the SARP Tracker?
SARPs — Standards and Recommended Practices — are the binding international rules that ICAO adopts into its Annexes to the Convention on International Civil Aviation. Developing a SARP is the ultimate output of the innovation standardisation process. This tracker monitors each SARP through its full lifecycle: Concept → Drafting → Expert Panel Review → ANC Review → Council Adoption → Entry into Force. It is directly tied to the iSTARS Standardization Roadmap process.
💡 How to use it: The progress bar on each card shows how far along the SARP lifecycle each standard is. Use the Stage and Annex filters to focus on specific areas. Cards highlighted in amber or red indicate SARPs that are behind schedule. The Target EIF (Entry into Force) date tells you when the standard is expected to become binding on all Member States.
RPAS Operations in Non-Segregated Airspace
Annex 2 (Rules of the Air) | RPAS Panel
Amendment to Annex 2 to accommodate RPAS operations beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) in non-segregated airspace.
Target EIF: 2026-11-01
Responsible: RPAS Panel
AAM Airspace Integration Standards
Annex 11 (Air Traffic Services) | ATM Panel
New SARPs for integration of Advanced Air Mobility vehicles into controlled and uncontrolled airspace.
Target EIF: 2027-11-01
Responsible: ATM Panel
SAF Sustainability Criteria
Annex 16 Vol IV (SAF) | CAEP
Standards for sustainable aviation fuel lifecycle carbon accounting, certification, and blending requirements.
Target EIF: 2025-11-01
Responsible: CAEP
AI Decision Support in ATM
Annex 11 (Air Traffic Services) | ATM Panel
Framework standards for use of AI-assisted decision support tools in air traffic management operations.
Target EIF: 2028-11-01
Responsible: ATM Panel
Cybersecurity for Aviation Systems
Annex 17 (Security) | AVSECP
Amendment to Annex 17 to address cybersecurity threats to aviation systems including ATM, airports, and aircraft.
Target EIF: 2026-11-01
Responsible: AVSECP
Biometric Passenger Facilitation
Annex 9 (Facilitation) | FALP
Standards for biometric identity verification in passenger facilitation processes at international airports.
Target EIF: 2024-11-01
Responsible: FALP
Remote Tower Operations
Annex 11 (Air Traffic Services) | ATM Panel
Standards for provision of aerodrome control service using remote and virtual tower technology.
Target EIF: 2025-11-01
Responsible: ATM Panel
Hydrogen Aircraft Operations
Annex 16 Vol III (Aeroplane CO2) | CAEP
New standards for hydrogen-powered aircraft certification, fuelling infrastructure, and operational procedures.
Target EIF: 2030-11-01
Responsible: CAEP
PDF Reports
Generate and download formatted programme reports for Council, Member States, and stakeholders
What are PDF Reports?
This section allows you to generate ready-to-share PDF reports from the live dashboard data. Each report is tailored for a specific audience — from Council briefings to regional office updates. Reports are generated in real time from the current data, ensuring they always reflect the latest programme status. This supports the reporting requirements under §5.6 of the ICAO Policy on Innovation and Council monitoring obligations.
💡 How to use it: Select the report type that matches your audience and click 'Generate PDF'. The report will open in a new browser tab formatted for printing or saving. For Council sessions, use the 'Programme Overview Report'. For regional meetings, use the 'Regional Activities Report'. Reports include charts, tables, and policy references automatically.
📊
Innovation Programme Overview
Executive Summary
Full programme status including all 15 innovations, KPIs, and strategic alignment summary.
🗺️
Regional Activity Report
Regional Report
Regional breakdown of innovation activities across all 7 ICAO regions with country-level details.
✅
Task Progress Report
Programme Report
Detailed task tracker status, milestone achievements, and upcoming deliverables.
📋
SARP Status Report
Standards Report
Standards and Recommended Practices lifecycle status for all innovation-related SARPs.
🌍
Member State Engagement
Stakeholder Report
Engagement levels of all 193 ICAO Member States in the Innovation Programme.
🎯
Strategic Alignment Report
Strategic Report
Mapping of all innovations to ICAO Strategic Goals 2026-2050 with gap analysis.
Official ICAO Languages
This dashboard is available in all 6 official languages of the International Civil Aviation Organization
What is the Languages Section?
ICAO operates in six official languages: English, French, Spanish, Russian, Arabic, and Chinese. This dashboard is fully localised in all six languages to ensure equitable access for all Member States regardless of their working language. The Languages section showcases the multilingual capability of the dashboard, displays sample policy text in each language, and allows you to switch the entire interface to your preferred language with a single click.
💡 How to use it: Click any 'Switch to [Language]' button to instantly change the dashboard interface to that language. You can also use the language buttons in the sidebar (EN / FR / ES / RU / AR / 中文) at any time. Arabic activates right-to-left (RTL) text layout automatically. Share the dashboard link with colleagues in their preferred language for more inclusive engagement.
Multilingual by Design
The ICAO Innovation Programme Dashboard is fully localised in the six official languages of the United Nations and ICAO. Use the language switcher in the sidebar to change the interface language at any time.
EN
FR
ES
RU
AR
中文
Translation Coverage
| Section | EN | FR | ES | RU | AR | 中文 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Navigation & Header | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Introduction & Policy | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Command Centre | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Innovation Inventory | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| World Map | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Task Tracker | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Strategic Alignment | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| TRL Maturity & Gantt | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| SARP Tracker & Reports | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
Horizon Scanning
§5.3(a) — Regular horizon scanning exercises for emerging technologies
What is Horizon Scanning?
Horizon Scanning is the systematic process of identifying emerging technologies and trends that could impact aviation before they become mainstream. Required by §5.3(a) of the ICAO Policy on Innovation, it ensures ICAO is proactively monitoring developments so that standards can be developed in a timely, technology-agnostic manner.
How to use it: Filter by Status to see where each technology sits in the evaluation pipeline. Technologies at "Near Standardization" should be escalated to the SARP Tracker.
10
Technologies Tracked
4
Under Assessment
1
Near Standardization
Quantum Navigation Systems
Navigation · EURNAT
GPS-independent navigation using quantum inertial sensors and atomic clocks. Potential to eliminate reliance on GNSS for precision approach.
TRL
TRL 2
NavigationQuantumSafety
Source: Academic Paper — MIT Lincoln Laboratory, 2025
Next review: Jul 2026
Neuromorphic Air Traffic Control
ATM · EURNAT
Brain-inspired computing chips that process ATM data with 100x lower energy consumption. Could enable real-time conflict detection at continental scale.
TRL
TRL 2
ATMAIEfficiency
Source: Industry Submission — Eurocontrol Innovation Lab
Next review: Sep 2026
Biojet Fuel from Algae
Environment · APAC
Third-generation SAF derived from microalgae with potential 90% lifecycle CO2 reduction. Currently at pilot plant scale in Singapore and Australia.
TRL
TRL 3
SAFEnvironmentSustainability
Source: Regional Office — ICAO APAC Regional Office
Next review: May 2026
Digital Twin Airports
Infrastructure · EURNAT
Full-fidelity real-time digital replicas of airport operations enabling predictive maintenance, capacity optimisation, and emergency simulation.
TRL
TRL 4
DigitalInfrastructureEfficiency
Source: Industry Submission — Airbus UpNext
Next review: Aug 2026
Space-Based ADS-B Extension
Surveillance · Global
Global real-time aircraft surveillance via LEO satellite constellation. Already operational over oceans; SARP development underway for polar routes.
TRL
TRL 7
SurveillanceSpaceSafety
Source: Industry Submission — Aireon LLC
Next review: Dec 2025
Hydrogen Fuel Cell APU
Propulsion · EURNAT
Replacing conventional auxiliary power units with hydrogen fuel cells to eliminate ground-level emissions at airports. Demonstrated on A320 testbed.
TRL
TRL 3
HydrogenEnvironmentPropulsion
Source: Academic Paper — DLR Institute of Engineering Thermodynamics
Next review: Oct 2026
Biometric Seamless Travel
Facilitation · MID
End-to-end biometric passenger journey from home to gate using federated digital identity. Pilots underway in UAE, Singapore, and Netherlands.
TRL
TRL 5
BiometricFacilitationDigital
Source: Regional Office — ICAO MID Regional Office
Next review: Mar 2026
AI-Powered Weather Prediction for Aviation
Meteorology · Global
Machine learning weather models outperforming traditional NWP by 90% at 10-day forecasts. ICAO WMO coordination needed for SIGMET/AIRMET integration.
TRL
TRL 5
AIWeatherSafety
Source: Out-of-sector — Google DeepMind — GraphCast
Next review: Jul 2026
Supersonic Passenger Transport
Aircraft Design · Global
Next-generation supersonic aircraft with overland sonic boom mitigation. Regulatory framework for supersonic operations over land does not yet exist.
TRL
TRL 4
SupersonicDesignRegulation
Source: Industry Submission — Boom Supersonic / Aerion
Next review: Mar 2026
Autonomous Ground Vehicles (AGV) Airside
Ground Operations · SAM
Fully autonomous baggage tugs, fuel trucks, and pushback vehicles operating airside without human operators. Safety case development needed.
TRL
TRL 4
AutonomousGround OpsSafety
Source: Regional Office — ICAO SAM Regional Office
Next review: Apr 2026
Stakeholder Types
§2 & §3 — In-sector, Emerging, and Out-of-sector stakeholder engagement
What is the Stakeholder Types View?
The ICAO Policy on Innovation (§2 & §3) recognises three categories of stakeholders: In-sector (traditional aviation), Emerging (new entrants like AAM operators), and Out-of-sector (tech companies, academia). This view maps all engaged stakeholders by type to ensure balanced, inclusive innovation governance.
How to use it: Click any stakeholder card to see their active innovations. Use the filter to focus on a specific type. Gaps in Out-of-sector engagement may indicate missed innovation opportunities.
In-Sector Aviation Stakeholders
Entities routinely involved in international civil aviation and actively engaged in relevant ICAO processes, including those in the aviation supply chain.
Example Organisations
IATAEurocontrolFAAEASACANSOACIBoeingAirbusThalesHoneywell
Emerging Aviation Stakeholders
Entities including start-ups who are new to the sector and not routinely involved in international civil aviation and who should be, but are not, fully aware of nor actively engaged in relevant ICAO processes.
Example Organisations
Joby AviationWisk AeroArcher AviationBoom SupersonicVolocopterLiliumOverairArcherBeta TechnologiesSurf Air
Out-of-Sector Stakeholders
Entities not routinely involved in international civil aviation but developing innovations that might be applied to achieving ICAO Strategic Goals. Includes international organisations, R&D bodies, academia, and civil society.
Example Organisations
Google DeepMindMITDLRNASAESASESAR JUClean Sky JUITUWMOUNEP
Innovation Stakeholder Map
Key stakeholders engaged per innovation area, categorised by type
| Innovation Area | In-Sector | Emerging | Out-of-Sector |
|---|---|---|---|
| RPAS Framework | IATA, Boeing, Airbus +1 more | Joby Aviation, Wisk Aero, Archer Aviation | NASA, ESA, DLR |
| AAM Standards | IATA, Airbus, Boeing +1 more | Joby Aviation, Volocopter, Lilium +1 more | NASA, MIT, Clean Sky JU |
| AI in ATM | Eurocontrol, CANSO, Thales +1 more | Frequentis, Searidge Technologies | Google DeepMind, MIT, SESAR JU |
| SAF Standards | IATA, Boeing, Airbus +1 more | LanzaJet, Gevo, Neste | UNEP, Clean Sky JU, DLR |
| Digital Identity | IATA, ACI, Thales +1 more | Clear, Idemia, Vision-Box | ITU, UNHCR, WEF |
| Hydrogen Propulsion | Airbus, Boeing, Rolls-Royce | ZeroAvia, Universal Hydrogen, H2Fly | DLR, NASA, Clean Sky JU |
| Cybersecurity Framework | IATA, Eurocontrol, SITA +1 more | Cylus, SIGA OT Solutions | ITU, ENISA, NATO CCDCOE |
| HAPS Operations | Airbus, Boeing, CANSO | Stratospheric Platforms, Loon (archived), SoftBank HAPSMobile | ITU, ESA, NASA |
| Space Operations | Aireon, SITA, Inmarsat | SpaceX Starlink, OneWeb, Amazon Kuiper | ESA, ITU, UNOOSA |
| ICF Programme | IATA, ACI, CANSO +1 more | Various start-ups via FINVEST | UNSCC, World Bank, UNDP |
Governance Accountability Tracker
§4 — Roles and responsibilities across ICAO governance bodies
What is the Governance Accountability Tracker?
Section 4 of the ICAO Policy on Innovation defines clear roles for the Assembly, Council, Air Navigation Commission, Committees, and Secretariat. This tracker monitors whether each body has fulfilled its innovation governance obligations, with completion status and due dates for each responsibility.
How to use it: Red items indicate overdue obligations. Click any row for details. Use this view to prepare governance reports for Council sessions.
⚖️
Council
§4.2
1/4
Completed
Completed
Establish the ICAO Policy on Innovation
17 Mar 2025
In Progress
Monitor implementation of the Policy
Ongoing
In Progress
Provide strategic guidance for implementation
Ongoing
Scheduled
Revise the Policy as needed (annually)
Mar 2026
✈️
Air Navigation Commission
§4.3
0/2
Completed
In Progress
Advise Council on innovation for air navigation advancement
Ongoing
In Progress
Implement Policy and resulting actions as directed by Council
Ongoing
🏛️
Committees of the Council
§4.4
0/2
Completed
In Progress
Advise Council on innovation in respective areas of work
Ongoing
In Progress
Implement Policy and resulting actions as directed by Council
Ongoing
🏢
Secretariat & Regional Offices
§4.5
0/7
Completed
In Progress
Implement Innovation Policy as related to mandate and Business Plan
Ongoing
In Progress
Report on implementation of the Innovation Policy
Quarterly
In Progress
Enhance a culture of innovation within the Secretariat
Ongoing
In Progress
Ensure adequate staff with appropriate competencies and tools
Ongoing
In Progress
Promote sharing of relevant information across the organization
Ongoing
In Progress
Advise Council on innovation matters in accordance with mandate
Ongoing
In Progress
Engage with other UN entities on innovation
Ongoing
Barriers Analysis
§5.3(b) — Identifying and addressing barriers to innovation adoption
What is the Barriers Analysis?
Per §5.3(b) of the ICAO Policy on Innovation, ICAO must identify and address barriers preventing Member States from adopting innovations. This panel maps regulatory, technical, financial, and capacity barriers by region, with mitigation actions and responsible bodies assigned to each.
How to use it: Filter by barrier type or region to identify patterns. High-severity barriers with no mitigation action assigned should be escalated to the relevant Committee.
7
Regulatory Barriers
4 High Severity
7
Capacity Barriers
5 High Severity
7
Infrastructure Barriers
2 High Severity
7
Funding Barriers
2 High Severity
Council–Industry Dialogue
§5.2 — Structured engagement between ICAO Council and industry stakeholders
What is the Council–Industry Dialogue Log?
Section 5.2 of the ICAO Policy on Innovation mandates structured dialogue between the Council and industry. This log records all formal dialogue sessions, recommendations made, follow-up actions, and their implementation status — creating an auditable record of how industry input shapes ICAO standards.
How to use it: Filter by year or topic. Recommendations with "Pending" follow-up status require action from the assigned body. Use this log to demonstrate accountability to Member States.
Innovation Culture
§5.5 — Fostering an internal culture of innovation within the ICAO Secretariat
What is the Innovation Culture Tracker?
Section 5.5 of the ICAO Policy on Innovation requires the Secretariat to foster an internal culture of innovation. This tracker monitors the five key actions: staff innovation training, internal idea submission mechanisms, cross-bureau collaboration, innovation recognition programmes, and partnership with external innovation ecosystems.
How to use it: Green indicators show completed actions. Amber indicates in-progress. Red requires immediate attention. Use this to report Secretariat innovation culture progress to Council.
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Overall Culture Score
Based on §5.5 action completion
Progress by Action
Policy KPIs
§5.6 — Formal monitoring indicators for the ICAO Policy on Innovation
What is the Policy KPI Dashboard?
Section 5.6 of the ICAO Policy on Innovation requires formal KPIs to monitor implementation. This dashboard tracks all official indicators: number of innovations in the SR process, Member State engagement rate, SARPs under development, regional activity coverage, and the annual policy review cycle — with a live countdown to the next review.
How to use it: KPIs below target (red) require escalation. The annual review countdown ensures the policy is updated on schedule. Export this view for Council reporting.
Policy Version
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Approved By
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Next Annual Review
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