Boeing extends collaboration with SparkCognition to develop AI-powered air transport solutions

Announced at the ongoing Farnborough air show, Boeing has extended its partnership with AI specialist SparkCognition to develop a solution for the management of autonomous unmanned aircraft.

The companies will collaborate using AI and blockchain technology to create a solution that is able to track unmanned aircraft during their travel, outlining corridors and routes to ensure safety and secure transportation.

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If their efforts prove to be successful, the solution could be groundbreaking within a market that is expected to become one of the most globally significant for years to come.

“Estimated by some analysts at $3 trillion, the urban aerial mobility opportunity will lead to the creation of the largest new market in our lifetimes,” said Amir Husain, founder and CEO of SparkCognition.

“The world's number one aviation leader partnering with the world's most innovative industrial AI company means that unparalleled experience in safety, innovation, scale, and reliability will be brought to bear to address this monumental opportunity.”

Further, Boeing has also announced that it will be launching a new business arm, Boeing NeXt – a division that will leverage the company’s R&D activities within autonomous flight and advanced propulsion.

“We're at a point in history where technological advances and societal trends are converging to demand bold solutions and a different way to travel,” said Greg Hyslop, Boeing chief technology officer.

“Through Boeing NeXt, we intend to build on our legacy of opening up new frontiers to move people and goods with proven technologies.”

The latest agreement comes just one month after Boeing’s venture Capital arm, Boeing HorizonX Ventures, invested in SparkCognition during the company’s $32mn funding round.