The urgency to achieve net-zero aviation by 2050 is emphasized in the Clean Aviation's Annual Forum 2025, underscoring the need for immediate government action and funding to avoid delays in meeting climate commitments. The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and International Air Transport Association (IATA) have set global targets for net-zero emissions by 2050, with a focus on Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF) and new propulsion technologies like hybrid-electric and hydrogen-powered aircraft. Heart Aerospace's ES-30, a 30-seat hybrid-electric aircraft, is a step towards cleaner aviation. However, innovation alone is not sufficient, as policy alignment, investment, and infrastructure readiness are also crucial. The International Council on Clean Transportation (ICCT) highlights the stagnation of fuel efficiency gains in conventional aircraft, emphasizing the need for electrification, especially in regional aviation. Public funding is deemed essential to de-risk early-stage development and fast-track commercialization. The need for increased public funding, a dedicated Aviation Industrial Strategy, and regulatory alignment to propel clean aviation technologies is evident. The DESTINATION 2050 report estimates a €2.4 trillion investment requirement for achieving net-zero aviation in Europe, emphasizing the importance of consistent funding, policy certainty, and incentives. The call for governments to support hybrid-electric aircraft R&D, develop an Aviation Industrial Strategy, and fast-track certification for new propulsion technologies is critical. The article concludes with a plea for policymakers to prioritize the fast-tracking of clean aviation technologies to fulfill the commitment of achieving net-zero aviation by 2050.