GRAND RAPIDS, Mich., January 25, 2024 – Cybernet Systems Corporation, a leading provider of military and commercial products, prototypes, and services, is proud to announce its participation in the Ford Launchpad for Innovative Technologies and Entrepreneurship (FLITE) program at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport.

 

As part of the fifth cohort, Cybernet has been awarded a grant to advance operational efficiencies through groundbreaking technologies. The FLITE program, in collaboration with the Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority, the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), Southwest Airlines, Seamless Ventures, and West Michigan Aviation Academy, aims to propel the transformation of aviation by supporting companies at the forefront of air travel innovation.

 

“We are honored to be selected as a participant in the FLITE program and grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the evolution of the aviation industry,” said Charles Cohen, Ph.D., chief technology officer for Cybernet. “Our focus is on advancing operational efficiencies, particularly through our collision avoidance technology, which will be assessed during manual and autonomous operation of our ground support equipment when navigating around aircraft and the airport’s restricted zones.”

 

The FLITE program, one of the nation’s first airport-based initiatives, focuses on five core areas for new technology advancements, including Automation & Analytics, Electrification & Sustainability, Safety & Security, Door-to-Door & Terminal Guest Experience, and Advancing Aviation.

 

We believe that our collision avoidance technology will play a crucial role in enhancing airport operations, ensuring the safety of passengers, workers, and aircraft,” added Dr. Cohen. “We’re excited to address these critical challenges with our partners: Fortbrand International, Toyota Tsusho America, Inc., and Michigan Aerotropolis, as well as the MEDC, who funded the project.”

 

Cybernet will conduct pilot testing of its collision avoidance technology at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport from February to May of this year.

 

 

The Gerald R. Ford International Airport is the second busiest airport in Michigan, serving business and leisure travelers with nonstop and connecting flights on six airlines. The Ford International Airport is managed and operated by the Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority. For more information, visit www.flyford.org or follow the airport on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram @FlyGRFord.