Skyryse, a California-based startup focused on aviation automation, has successfully secured over $300 million in Series C funding, elevating its valuation to $1.15 billion and affirming its status as a unicorn.
Announced on Tuesday and led by Autopilot Ventures, this funding round serves as a substantial catalyst for the startup as it approaches the conclusion of an extensive Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certification process for its advanced flight control system. The funds will also facilitate the integration of its operating system, SkyOS, across various aircraft, including U.S. military Black Hawk helicopters.
Participating investors in this funding round include Fidelity Management & Research Company, ArrowMark Partners, Atreides Management LP, BAM Elevate, Baron Capital Group, Durable Capital Partners, Positive Sum, Qatar Investment Authority, RCM Private Markets Fund managed by Rokos Capital Management, and Woodline Partners. Founded in 2016, Skyryse has successfully raised over $605 million in equity capital.
Skyryse has garnered interest from investors, the U.S. military, emergency medical service operators, law enforcement agencies, and private operators due to its streamlined flight system. The startup has replaced numerous mechanical controls, such as gauges and switches, with an advanced array of flight computers that automate the most complex and hazardous flying tasks.
While this system does not achieve full autonomy, it significantly aids pilots by automating challenging aspects of flying, thereby enhancing pilot skillsets and improving overall safety.
The user-friendly operation—merely requiring a finger swipe on a touchscreen—has attracted partnerships with companies like United Rotorcraft, Air Methods, and Mitsubishi Corporation, who are integrating SkyOS into various helicopters and airplanes.
Skyryse initially focused on developing and testing its system on helicopters, among the most challenging aircraft to manage. The vision is that SkyOS can be adapted for use across all types of aircraft. The initial operating system, dubbed Skyryse One, automates key functions such as takeoff, landing, and emergency procedures, and has already been successfully integrated into Black Hawk helicopters.
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Skyryse continues to make strides in its FAA certification process. Last year, the FAA granted final design approval for the company’s SkyOS flight control computers. The next steps involve completing formal flight testing and verification to obtain full certification.
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