Honeywell and Odys Aviation partner to develop ground control stations for hybrid VTOL aircraft
PHOENIX - Honeywell in Phoenix and Odys Aviation in Long Beach, Calif., have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to collaborate on designing new ground control stations to support the deployment of Odys Aviation’s hybrid VTOL aircraft in the Middle East and Pacific regions.
Under the MOU, Honeywell will provide a ground control station for uncrewed aerial system (UAS) operations, aiding the use of Odys Aviation’s uncrewed air vehicle, Laila. Pilot programs with Laila and the new ground control station are expected to begin in 2025.
Laila, designed in multiple configurations, has a 230-mile range suitable for pipeline inspections, leak detection, geological surveys, maritime operations, and logistics services, including time-critical goods delivery.
Honeywell’s ground control station allows remote pilots to manage multiple vehicles over long distances without direct visual contact. It includes advanced automation features like traffic awareness, contingency management, and ground-based detect-and-avoid, which reduce pilot workload and increase safety and efficiency.
“As companies seek to expand their development and operation of uncrewed vehicles, safe operation from a remote environment is critical. Our planned collaboration with Odys Aviation will represent a significant milestone, moving our innovative solutions from testing to real-life scenarios,” said David Shilliday, vice president, Advanced Air Mobility, Honeywell Aerospace Technologies.
“Honeywell shares our belief that the key to commercializing new aircraft technologies and moving from R&D to market lies in partnerships. Honeywell has shown extensive leadership in the sustainable aviation space, and we’re excited to be working hand-in-hand with their world-class team to deliver on the promise of advanced aerospace technologies as soon as next year,” said James Dorris, CEO and co-founder of Odys Aviation.
Both companies plan to work with MWASALAT, the Omani National Transportation Company, to implement aerial logistics programs in Oman and the GCC.
“MWASALAT is excited to be pushing the boundaries of sustainable aviation and working with companies like Honeywell and Odys Aviation to bring the region closer to rolling out operations. Together with the proven experience of Honeywell and the technological innovation of Odys Aviation, Oman is laying meaningful groundwork to becoming a leader in this exciting new age of aviation, and as a leading company in providing transportation to Oman, we’re excited to be at the forefront of this revolution,” said Bader AlNadabi, CEO of MWASALAT.
