XTI Aerospace, a pioneer xVTOL and powered-lift aviation technologies, today announced that its wholly owned subsidiary, XTI Aircraft Company—the developer of the revolutionary TriFan 600—has entered into a strategic partnership with global design and innovation leader IDEO. This collaboration marks a significant step forward in XTI's mission to deliver transformative, customer-focused aircraft solutions as part of the emerging Vertical Economy.

This partnership comes as XTI accelerates development of its TriFan 600 and lays the groundwork for a future family of xVTOL aircraft while further expanding its ecosystem of partners dedicated to creating a compelling vision of vertical mobility. IDEO will work closely with XTI on a multi-phase, long-term engagement designed to transform the XTI customer experience into a seamless, human-centered ecosystem. The collaboration spans from early-stage market research and product-market fit validation to the nuanced design of aircraft interiors, user interfaces, service models, and ownership journeys.

Together, the teams will apply IDEO's methodology of deep ethnographic research, rapid prototyping, and systems-level design to shape not just how XTI's aircraft look and function—but how they are perceived, accessed, and experienced by the customer. From the tactile details of seat ergonomics and lighting to the digital ecosystem supporting booking, ownership, and support, the collaboration intends to build an integrated experience that is both intelligent and intuitive.

"We are thrilled to partner with IDEO, one of the most respected names in human-centered design," said Scott Pomeroy, CEO of XTI Aerospace. "Our vision has always been bold, but now we're backing it with the discipline of world-class customer insight and design thinking. IDEO will help us develop the XTI family of aircraft to not only redefine how people fly, but how they feel and interact with that journey from first touch to long-term ownership."

Heather Boesch, Partner at IDEO, is leading the XTI account, bringing deep experience in systems-level innovation and transportation. She is joined by senior members of IDEO's Transportation and Mobility team—an elite group of strategists, designers, and engineers known for crafting user experiences across industries including aerospace, automotive, and urban mobility.

The partnership has begun the engagement with deep customer research and co-creation workshops aimed at clarifying product-market fit across different user segments—ranging from executive travelers and fleet operators to logistics applications. As the engagement progresses, IDEO will support:

- Refinement of aircraft interior and exterior aesthetics

- Design of cabin environments tailored to mission-specific use cases

- Trade show and public engagement strategy

- Web and digital experience overhaul

- End-to-end customer journey design—from initial brand discovery through ownership and service

"IDEO is excited to partner with XTI to help shape the future of vertical mobility," said Boesch. "XTI's dedication to engineering excellence is complemented by a clear willingness to embrace bold ideas and integrated design. Together, we're not just developing advanced aircraft – we're creating thoughtful, user-centered solutions that elevate the entire travel experience."