Barcelona-based Vueling has launched the second edition of the NextGen Aviation Challenge which invites start-ups and entrepreneurs from across Europe to submit proposals aimed at transforming customer experience, improving operational efficiency and accelerating sustainability in aviation.

The Spanish low-cost carrier says the NextGen Aviation Challenge reinforces its commitment to open innovation and collaboration with the entrepreneurial ecosystem, betting on solutions that help to foster more sustainable, efficient and customer-centric aviation.

In 2025, start-up company PulpaTronics was winner of the sustainability challenge with an eco‑friendly baggage tag. Asteroid Technologies was awarded in the customer experience challenge for Hearlo, its app designed to eliminate communication barriers which the airline has already begun using for its customers.

This year, Vueling says it is looking for start-ups with transformative visions for emerging technologies such as AI, virtual reality, quantum computing, and advanced manufacturing, among others.

The aim is to bring these technologies closer to real use cases that can have a positive impact both on Vueling as a business and on its customer experience.

The first challenge suggested by Vueling focuses on advancing towards more sustainable aviation. Vueling is looking for proposals that aim to improve operational efficiency and flight planning, optimise routes, reduce taxi times and fuel consumption, promote the use of sustainable fuels, and develop more efficient aircraft and engine technologies.

They will also be looking for solutions for carbon capture, offsetting and emissions reduction. Initiatives that integrate sustainability into the customer experience or that encourage employees to get involved will also be reviewed.

The second challenge addresses the evolution of the customer experience throughout the entire journey. From searching and purchasing tickets on the website or app and the check-in and boarding process, to the onboard experience, customer service or post-flight services, Vueling is seeking solutions that enable an increasingly seamless, personalised and efficient experience, while maintaining its commitment to an accessible pricing model.

Start-ups that are interested must submit their applications by January 31, 2026. The finalists will be selected in February and invited to present their proposal on March 3, 2026, at the Vueling stand at 4YFN, part of the Mobile World Congress. The awards ceremony will take place on the same day.

The winning proposals will have the opportunity to develop a proof of concept with Vueling and will receive support to submit their candidacy to the IAG group’s IAGi Accelerator programme.

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