Boeing HorizonX Ventures Invests In UAV Deliveries Startup Matternet

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Boeing recently led a $16 million Series A investment effort through its Boeing HorizonX Ventures initiative in Matternet, a California-based startup focused on developing safe, on-demand unmanned aerial vehicle delivery solutions in urban environments. (Photo courtesy of Boeing.)

Global aerospace and commercial jet manufacturer Boeing has invested in a California company it says will help it “further enable reliable, efficient cargo air transportation.” Along with Swiss Post, Sony Innovation Fund, and Levitate Capital, Boeing led a $16 million Series A investment in Matternet, a Menlo Park, California,-based startup Boeing says is “pioneering safe, on-demand UAV [unmanned aerial vehicle] delivery operations in urban environments.” In Switzerland in 2017, Matternet became the first company worldwide to receive authorization to launch UAV operations over densely populating areas, according to Boeing.

Innovating Air Transportation

Boeing made this investment through its HorizonX Ventures investment arm, with a portfolio that includes companies specializing in aerospace and manufacturing innovations. Technological focus areas include autonomous systems, energy and data storage, advanced materials, augmented reality systems and software, machine learning, hybrid-electric and hypersonic propulsion, and “internet of things” connectivity.

Boeing says when combined with its own expertise in complex logistics, integration, and manufacturing abilities, Matternet’s advanced logistics platform will further enable reliable, efficient cargo air transportation. Matternet has reportedly used its Station, M2 drone, and cloud platform to execute safe UAV flights over densely populated areas. The company partnered with Swiss Post, Switzerland’s national post office, on on-demand deliveries of medical samples Swiss-based hospitals.

Almost A Reality

In May, Matternet joined a joint U.S. Department of Transportation and Federal Aviation Administration program focused on accelerating the integration of unmanned aircraft into national airspace. Matternet will reportedly work with hospitals, universities, and transportation agencies in California and North Carolina to enable on-demand delivery of medical supplies and samples.

Matternet also recently joined a World Economic Forum initiative “to shape the future of mobility” via a Drone Innovators Network that’s working to “accelerate a safe, sustainable, global mobility system focused on improving people’s lives.” Brian Schettler, Boeing HorizonX Ventures managing director, said Matternet’s resources and history make the development of a safe, global autonomous air mobility system a “near-term reality.”

In addition to its Boeing HorizonX Ventures efforts, Boeing manufactures commercial aircraft and business jets, of which there are many available on Controller.com. You’ll find pre-owned 737, 777, 757, 747, 727, Boeing BBJ, and other Boeing aircraft for sale on Controller.com.

Source: Boeing

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