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News & Media Textron amps up eVTOL staff

Textron amps up eVTOL staff

German firm acquired to work with Pipistrel team

May 22, 2024 By Jim Moore

Textron eAviation, the business unit that includes the Pipistrel brand, bought a German firm specialized in creating flight control and other systems that enable aircraft to fly with or without pilots.

A pilot is optional aboard the Surveyor, a reconnaissance aircraft designed to accommodate multiple sensor payloads and operate from short, unimproved runways. Photo courtesy of Textron eAviation.
A pilot is optional aboard the Surveyor, a reconnaissance aircraft designed to accommodate multiple sensor payloads and operate from short, unimproved runways. Photo courtesy of Textron eAviation.
A pilot is optional aboard the Surveyor, a reconnaissance aircraft designed to accommodate multiple sensor payloads and operate from short, unimproved runways. Photo courtesy of Textron eAviation.

Announced May 15, the acquisition of Amazilia Aerospace GmbH bolsters Textron's electric aviation development capacity by about 30 skilled workers, as well as facilities in Munich. The Amazilia Aerospace staff will work closely with Textron eAviation's team from Pipistrel, the creators of many designs including the Velis Electro, the first battery-powered aircraft approved for flight training in the United States (and certified in Europe since 2016).

The newly combined team of aerospace engineers and constructors will work on forthcoming offerings including the remotely piloted Nuuva electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft designed to carry 661 pounds of cargo and the Surveyor optionally piloted surveillance aircraft.

“We’re excited to welcome Amazilia Aerospace’s talented employees and innovative technologies to the Textron eAviation team,” said Textron eAviation CEO Kriya Shortt, in a news release. “This integration represents our continued dedication to pushing the boundaries of technology to deliver exceptional solutions for our customers.”

Jim Moore
Jim Moore
Managing Editor-Digital Media
Digital Media Managing Editor Jim Moore joined AOPA in 2011 and is an instrument-rated private pilot, as well as a certificated remote pilot, who enjoys competition aerobatics and flying drones.
Go to Jim Moore's Profile
Topics: Technology, Automation, Electric

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