Rapita Systems, a leading provider of qualifiable software verification tools for the aerospace and defense industries, and Avionyx, a Joby Aviation-owned aerospace engineering company that provides next-generation compliance solutions, today announced a strategic partnership to accelerate the development and certification of complex avionics projects for customers in the Americas, including at DO-178C Design Assurance Level A (DAL A).

Some of the biggest delays for new aircraft, including next-generation electric aircraft and drones, are a result of software compliance. Every line of code in an aircraft must be tested and verified to meet rigorous and important certification standards (e.g. the Federal Aviation Administration’s DO-178C). Traditionally, this testing process takes years, costs millions of dollars, and requires specialized experts that are in short supply.

This partnership will create a “one-stop-shop” that helps aerospace companies to meet rigorous certification standards faster. By combining Rapita’s world leading software verification tools with Avionyx’s 35 years of engineering expertise, the companies will provide a complete solution for software safety and compliance.

“Rapita and Avionyx joining forces is a logical union given our shared focus on supporting high-criticality aerospace projects and commitment to solving the industry’s hardest challenges.”

Jamie Ayre, Chief Commercial Officer at Rapita Systems.

“This collaboration enables Avionyx to offer our customers a faster, more efficient path to certification, even for the most demanding DAL A and multi-core projects. Rapita's tools, combined with our decades of aerospace experience, create a powerful solution for programs across the Americas.”

Tom Ferrell, General Manager at Avionyx.

The partnership between Avionyx and Rapita stands to be a key accelerant for advancement of next generation aviation technology:

- Speed to Market: Companies can find and fix software bugs in hours instead of weeks, significantly reducing the time it takes to verify for compliance.

- Lower Costs: Automation reduces the need for manual testing, allowing startups and established companies to develop their products more affordably.

- Uncompromising Reliability: The partnership supports “Level A” software certification - the highest rating possible - ensuring flight systems are held to the most stringent standards of reliability.

In addition, the partnership addresses challenges related to certifying modern aircraft that use “multicore” processors. These processors provide more functionality, but their behavior is harder to verify raising critical safety concerns. Rapita Systems’ MACH178 workflows combined with Avionyx engineering experience will provide a robust methodology for satisfying AC 20-193 objectives. This can allow companies to invest more heavily in deploying the latest and most powerful computer chips with the confidence that they can also be in compliance with commercial aviation regulators.