Honeywell, a global leader in aerospace innovation, has announced that its Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) business unit has secured contracts worth over $10 billion. The unit, which was formed just over three years ago, has developed vital partnerships with industry leaders such as Archer Aviation, Lilium, Pipistrel, Supernal and Vertical Aerospace. These contracts will help Honeywell to build the future of sustainable flight by enabling global same-day delivery of cargo, faster and more sustainable flights in and around urban areas.
Honeywell’s AAM Solutions
Honeywell’s AAM business unit offers a comprehensive product portfolio of ready-now solutions that act as the brains, muscles and senses of the aircraft. These solutions are based on generations of experience across all sectors of aerospace and are designed to meet the specific needs of the emerging AAM market. Some of the key products include:
- Honeywell Anthem, a next-generation avionics system that serves as the “brain” behind intuitive cockpit operations. It provides flight management, navigation, communication, surveillance and safety functions for the pilots and the aircraft.
- Honeywell’s fly-by-wire solutions and custom-built actuation systems that function as the “muscles”, providing precise flight controls and the necessary redundancy for these advanced vehicles. They also enable electric propulsion, which reduces emissions and noise.
- Honeywell’s diverse range of sensors such as RDR-84K radar and AH2000 attitude heading reference system that add the “senses”, making these aircraft not just smart but also aware of their environment. They also enhance situational awareness, collision avoidance and weather detection capabilities.
Honeywell’s AAM Partnerships
Honeywell’s AAM business unit has established strategic partnerships with some of the leading players in the AAM industry, such as:
- Archer Aviation, a California-based company that is developing an all-electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft that can travel up to 150 miles at 150 mph. Honeywell is providing the avionics, flight control and navigation systems for the aircraft, which is expected to enter service in 2024.
- Lilium, a German company that is developing a seven-seater eVTOL jet that can travel up to 155 miles at 175 mph. Honeywell is providing the avionics, flight control, actuation, radar and electric power systems for the aircraft, which is expected to enter service in 2024.
- Pipistrel, a Slovenian company that is developing a hybrid-electric eVTOL aircraft that can carry up to six passengers or cargo. Honeywell is providing the avionics, flight control and electric power systems for the aircraft, which is expected to enter service in 2025.
- Supernal, a Chinese company that is developing a four-seater eVTOL aircraft that can travel up to 62 miles at 93 mph. Honeywell is providing the avionics, flight control, actuation and electric power systems for the aircraft, which is expected to enter service in 2023.
- Vertical Aerospace, a British company that is developing a four-seater eVTOL aircraft that can travel up to 120 miles at 150 mph. Honeywell is providing the avionics, flight control, actuation, radar and electric power systems for the aircraft, which is expected to enter service in 2024.
Honeywell’s AAM Vision
Honeywell’s AAM business unit is not only focused on delivering cutting-edge solutions for its partners, but also on shaping the future of the AAM industry. The unit has a global presence, spanning North America, Western Europe and India, and has access to a rich diversity of talent and perspectives. The unit is also involved in various initiatives to foster collaboration and innovation among the stakeholders of the AAM ecosystem, such as hosting industry summits, participating in regulatory forums and supporting research and development projects.
“This milestone is not just about reaching a certain number, it’s a testament to the unwavering vision we hold for the future of aviation and Advanced Air Mobility,” said David Shilliday, vice president and general manager, AAM, Honeywell Aerospace. “We are committed to transforming travel and delivery services. Imagine a world where a 100-mile journey takes 45 minutes or less, and same-day package delivery is possible in every populated region of the world. With the help of our partners, we’re making that vision a reality.”
