Aviation

The Czech aerospace industry enters 2026 as a mature and highly specialised ecosystem that combines long-standing engineering tradition with deep integration into global aviation value chains. The sector has evolved from aircraft manufacturing towards advanced systems, components, testing and applied research. Today, the Czech Republic is recognised for its heritage and as a reliable partner for development, manufacturing and innovation across civil aviation, unmanned systems and selected dual-use technologies.

A central pillar of domestic aircraft manufacturing is AERO Vodochody Aerospace, founded in 1919, which remains a key European producer of jet trainer and light combat aircraft. The L-39 Skyfox programme for the Czech state enterprise LOM PRAHA illustrates the depth of the local supply chain, involving hundreds of suppliers, many of them based in the Czech Republic.

Research, testing and certification infrastructure represents a long-term competitive advantage. VZLU AEROSPACE in Prague, founded in 1922, serves as the national centre for aerospace research, development and testing, providing capabilities in aerodynamics, structural and propulsion testing, materials research and certification-oriented services for domestic and international clients.

The Czech Republic is firmly embedded in global aerospace supply chains and continues to attract leading investors. Honeywell operates major engineering and aviation-related activities in the country, with Brno positioned as one of its key regional R&D hubs. GE Aerospace has expanded investment into its turboprop business in Europe, including activities linked to Prague and long-term cooperation with the Czech Technical University focused on joint testing infrastructure and sustainable aviation projects. Other significant international footprints include Safran Cabin and Latécoère's aerostructures activities in Prague Letňany, both serving global aircraft programmes, while Bell operates a helicopter service centre in Prague providing European maintenance, repair and customisation support.

Unmanned aviation and autonomous systems are among the most dynamic growth areas. A UAV testing polygon in the Karlovy Vary region, developed in cooperation with SUAS Group on the Sokolov area sites, is being prepared to support real-world testing and validation, with relevance for civil applications such as inspection, infrastructure monitoring and emergency response, while remaining compatible with dual-use requirements. Sector coordination is supported by the Czech Aerospace Cluster, which connects manufacturers, suppliers and research organisations and improves ecosystem visibility for international partners and investors.

Innovation pipelines are further strengthened through CzechInvest programmes, including the Technology Incubation initiative and ESA BIC Czech Republic. Dronetag, supported through both schemes, focuses on hardware and software enabling safe drone operations and compliance with evolving regulations. Vrgineers, an ESA BIC alumnus, demonstrates the ecosystem's capability to scale advanced simulation and XR technologies for professional pilot training. These examples reflect the shift towards digitalisation, autonomy and sustainability-driven innovation, reinforcing the Czech Republic's investment readiness in future aviation capabilities.