BAE Systems and Supernal collaborate on electric aircraft flight control system
BAE Systems and Supernal have agreed to design and develop the flight control computer for Supernal’s eVTOL vehicle, a lightweight and compact fly-by-wire system for eVTOL vehicles that will enable safe, efficient, and comfortable flight.
In support of Supernal, Hyundai’s US-based eVTOL subsidiary, BAE Systems will help define the architecture of a lightweight, fly-by-wire system for its autonomous-capable aircraft.
BAE Systems Controls and Avionics Solutions vice president and general manager Ehtisham Siddiqui said: “The development of advanced, high-integrity controls is crucial to meet the demands of electric aircraft.
“BAE Systems is harnessing its investment in electrification and expertise in flight-critical systems to advance sustainable aviation. We look forward to working with Supernal to make this shared vision a reality.”
The system will be a compact solution that addresses the processing requirements and potential autonomy needs of advanced air mobility vehicles. It will also have the flexibility to meet the unique integration challenges of electric air taxis, as well as large regional electric aircraft.
Supernal chief technology officer Ben Diachun said: “As an established aerospace and defense technology leader, BAE Systems will play a critical role for Supernal as we develop our eVTOL vehicle to the highest commercial aviation standards.
“Together, we will create a bespoke flight controls system that brings Advanced Air Mobility one step closer to reaching the masses in the coming decades.”
The program will leverage more than 40 years of BAE Systems’ expertise in designing and certifying flight-critical fly-by-wire systems for commercial and military aircraft, including vertical takeoff platforms. Work on the flight control system will be conducted at the company’s facility in Endicott, New York.
Earlier this week, Supernal chose aerospace provider Honeywell to develop avionics systems for its eVTOL aircraft to explore integration of the ‘Anthem’ flight deck into its flying taxi, which is set to enter commercial service in 2028.
