Category: BizJet

AIX 2026 to Deliver Most Ambitious Show Yet for Landmark 25th Edition

Aircraft Interiors Expo (AIX) has revealed full details ahead of its landmark 25th edition, taking place from 14–16 April 2026 at Hamburg Messe, Germany. 

Marking a quarter-century at the forefront of cabin innovation, the milestone edition promises to be the most ambitious in the show’s history, with brand new features and experiences befitting a landmark anniversary – including a celebratory evening on 13 April to mark 25 editions of the show.

Since its launch in 2000, AIX has charted the remarkable evolution of the aircraft cabin – from the rise of lie-flat seating, enhanced inflight entertainment and brand-driven interior design, to today’s highly engineered environments shaped by sustainability targets, advanced materials, seamless connectivity and holistic passenger wellbeing. The 2026 edition will offer exhibitors and attendees a unique opportunity to reflect on how dramatically the cabin has evolved over the past quarter century, while keeping the focus firmly on what’s next: the innovations redefining efficiency, accessibility, premium travel and the connected passenger experience of tomorrow.

Innovations Landing on the Show Floor

This year, nearly 500 companies are set to exhibit — including 74 first-time exhibitors, 14 in the new BizJet Zone, and 77 in the IFEC Zone.

The 25th edition will also welcome some true show veterans. 12 exhibitors have been attending for over 20 years, among them names such as B/E Aerospace, Belgraver B.V, Botany Weaving Mill, and Lantal Textiles AG, joined by the likes of Percival Aviation Ltd, Rohi Stoffe GmbH, Tex Tech Industries, CELSO, Enflite, Panasonic, SCHOTT, and Isovolta.

Among the innovations on this year’s show floor, Airchair will present its expanded wheelchair range, headlined by the Airchair II, following a global distribution deal with Satair, and WestJet’s order of 22 units for its Boeing 737 fleet.

In connectivity, ThinKom will unveil a new small form factor antenna supporting ultra-fast GEO, MEO and LEO operation, engineered with reduced weight, lower cost and a smaller footprint. SES will be showcasing how it’s aiming to make inflight connectivity easier by standardising how Android devices connect to inflight Wi-Fi through a new partnership with Google. Panasonic Avionics is set to demonstrate the progress being made across in-flight systems, connectivity, digital solutions and technical services.

On the galley equipment side, DKA Aerospace makes its debut with WasteLite, a lighter waste cart designed for easier handling, and ThermalCool, an insulated cart capable of keeping food below 7°C for 24 hours. A third product, addressing what the company describes as “an issue airlines have been asking to solve for years,” will be revealed exclusively at the show. Enflite will be showcasing its Modular Refrigerator. This advanced galley appliance separates the compressor-based cooling module, storage module, and door panel, allowing each component to be routed to the appropriate teams for fit and finish. The result is improved material flow and a more streamlined aircraft completion process.

In cabin lighting, SCHOTT and F/LIST introduce SCHOTT® Opal Terra, a new premium reading light line incorporating natural materials such as wood and stone. SCHOTT will also debut SCHOTT® SeatSpot, a projector-based solution integrated into business-class seat shells that projects seat numbers, logos or messages to streamline boarding and enhance the passenger experience. Further, SCHOTT and jetlite are advancing their partnership to deliver a new generation of chronobiology-based cabin lighting for next-generation aircraft interiors.

SOGECLAIR will unveil three concepts at AIX 2026 using its brand-new VISTA demonstrator: an enhanced Privacy Door designed to elevate personal space, acoustic comfort and cabin aesthetics; a Meal Table including a single-piece business-class console table and a bifold side-ledge version enabling companion dining in front-row minisuites; and the Front Row Monument Minisuite, introducing a more open and flexible layout that maximises space and elevates the traditional front-row experience.

On the sustainability front, Gen Phoenix has partnered with Boeing, Teague, Elevate Aircraft Seating, Aerofoam and Müller Textil Group to launch the CirculAir Guide  – a practical resource embedding circularity into seat design from the outset. The company will also unveil new premium leather finishes reflecting smarter material choices across the aircraft lifecycle.

Many more companies are expected to reveal brand new products and solutions exclusively at the show.

Top Airlines and Innovators Talk Passenger Experience 

The Passenger Experience Conference (PEC) returns on 13 April, the day before AIX opens its doors, and this year’s edition is set to be even bolder than previous years. With speakers from a record 20+ airlines, including United Airlines, Virgin Atlantic, Saudi Airlines and Fiji Airways, alongside innovators from Panasonic Avionics, Teague and Tangerine, the one-day conference will deliver over 30 sessions across three focused streams: Digital First, Wellness & Human-Centric Design, and Sustainability & the Eco-Conscious Traveller.

The day will close with a networking reception open to all delegates, marking the 25th edition of the show, and rounding off an unmissable day of big-picture thinking ahead of the show floor opening.

Insight on Industry Horizons 

Providing vital context for what’s on display – not just what’s new but why it matters – CabinSpace Live, the show’s dedicated conference programme, free to attend for AIX visitors, will run over 15 sessions across three days of the exhibition. Expert panels, in-depth Q&As and practical case studies will shine a light on the trends and technologies. Sessions will feature speakers from APEX, Airbus, Vueling, Thales InFlyt Experience, and many more.

Fireside chats will return for 2026, offering clear, candid conversations led by senior voices from airlines, manufacturers and industry associations. Informal yet insight-driven, these sessions are designed to make complex topics accessible and engaging, while equipping airlines and industry professionals with the insights they need to make informed decisions around passenger experience improvements, product development and service delivery. 

The programme will open with a session on antennas and satellites and the next leap in in-flight coverage, before exploring how airlines can better link pre-, in- and post-flight touchpoints through smarter use of data and personalisation. Sessions will also examine how airlines can deliver diverse in-flight entertainment that meets evolving passenger tastes and regulatory compliance requirements while maximising monetisation opportunities.

Further topics include improving cabin comfort through seating, materials, lighting and air quality; advancing inclusive design; and how evolving passenger expectations and sustainability goals will shape the cabin of 2030 and beyond. Commercial aviation will also be in focus, alongside a session offering practical insights for aviation start-ups. Delegates can also look forward to discussions on rethinking comfort on long-haul flights, the future of regional flying in North America, and the much-anticipated unveiling of this year’s Crystal Cabin Award winners.

Speakers in the programme will include Marc Landgraf, Partner at Porsche Consulting GmbH; Paul Edwards, Head of Advanced Design at Airbus; Nils Stoll, Owner and CEO of Green Mobility Interior; Tammo Bahns, Accessibility and Inclusive Design Expert at Diehl Aviation; Steven Greenway, CEO of flyadeal; and Arendse Baggesen, Founder and CEO of SMALLrevolution.

CabinSpace Live will see strong industry collaboration across the programme, with Tuesday’s sessions presented by Inflight, while Wednesday welcomes the support of partners including Cirium and Tech Mahindra, who will help bring fresh perspectives and expertise to the stage. Together, these contributors ensure a dynamic mix of insight, discussion and real-world experience across the three days.

Details of additional talks taking place on Thursday 16 April will be announced soon on the AIX website. 

Complementing the programme, Viasat’s Women in Aviation Leaders Luncheon will take place on Wednesday 15 April, bringing together professionals from across the aviation interiors ecosystem for an inclusive and engaging networking opportunity. Open to all ages and genders, the session will offer a relaxed setting to connect, share experiences and gain practical insights from peers and industry leaders, alongside a complimentary buffet lunch.

Recognising Fresh Industry Perspective 

The Crystal Cabin Awards 2026 will reveal its winners on the evening of 14 April. The shortlist of 24 finalists was selected by an international jury drawn from companies including British Airways, Collins Aerospace, Lufthansa Group, and Safran. The awards will crown winners for eight different categories, including a brand-new Breakthrough Start-ups category, recognising fresh perspectives with the potential to reshape the industry.

Archana Dharni, event director, Aircraft Interiors Expo, said: “Twenty-five editions in, and innovation in the aviation interiors sector is accelerating at speed. What AIX uniquely delivers is the entire interiors ecosystem in one place, moving at the pace the industry now demands. This anniversary edition is both a moment to reflect on how far the sector has come since our very first edition, and a critical launchpad for the transformational technologies that will come next. It will be simply unmissable.”

The 25th edition of Aircraft Interiors Expo (AIX) will take place at the Hamburg Messe in Hamburg, Germany, from 14–16 April 2026. The event will be co-located with the World Travel Catering & Onboard Services Expo (WTCE), following the Passenger Experience Conference (PEC) on Monday 13 April.

Partners In Aviation Marks 10 Years of Matching Aircraft Co-owners, Helping Cut Ownership Costs in Half

Partners In Aviation (PIA), the leader in co-ownership for private aviation, is celebrating its 10-year anniversary, marking a decade of steady growth, innovation, and nationwide adoption of its structured co-ownership model.

Founded in 2016 with a single focus of bringing two owners together to share one aircraft, the company introduced PIA Managed Co-Ownership, a program that provides the predictability and access owners require within a well-defined legal framework. PIA bridges the gap between membership programs and sole ownership, cutting operators’ costs in half.

Fractional (time-share) programs and jet-card/charter membership programs have long served as industry solutions to the high cost of aircraft ownership. Both tend to be most cost-effective for operators flying up to 50 hours per year, while sole ownership often becomes economically viable once owners exceed 150 to 200 hours annually.

For operators flying between those thresholds, the options have historically been limited.

For many in this segment, sharing an aircraft with another compatible owner offers the most logical solution. Two light users sharing one aircraft can achieve the access they need with economics that make greater sense. However, identifying a suitable partner and creating a structured framework for shared usage has traditionally been difficult.

Providing a clear and structured path to co-ownership became the foundation of Partners In Aviation.

“Ten years ago, we set out to make aircraft ownership more efficient for light users—those flying roughly 100 hours a year,” said Mark Molloy, president of PIA. “The fractional and jet-card models are well designed for those flying up to 50 hours per year. Beyond that, the economics become difficult to justify. Sole ownership typically doesn’t make sense until operators are flying at least 150 to 200 hours annually. Our focus has always been the operators in the middle, flying 50 to 150 hours per year.”

The program matches vetted co-owner candidates who align geographically and in aircraft make and model interest. Each match consists of two owners, one aircraft and a management provider appropriate for that pairing.

PIA clients include both current aircraft owners interested in selling half of their aircraft and non-owners interested in acquiring half of an aircraft that fits their mission profile. The company’s aviation legal counsel provides the structured framework under which co-owners operate, meeting the expectations of sophisticated owners and their advisors.

Over the past decade, PIA has grown from its early focus on light jets to now serving aircraft owners across virtually every category of turbine aircraft—from Pilatus PC-12 turboprops and Embraer Phenom 300/300E jets to Praetor 600s and Gulfstream G500/550 aircraft, and many models in between.

“We are not a plug-and-play membership program,” Molloy added. “Our process requires time to identify the right partner, aircraft, and management solution. But the value proposition makes sense. This is what we do, and if co-ownership fits your needs, we can help.”

As the private aviation market continues to evolve, PIA remains focused on serving owners who value control, predictability, and responsible financial stewardship. The company views the next decade as an opportunity to continue expanding awareness of structured co-ownership as a practical path to private aviation.

QT9 Software Announces New Global Headquarters in Historic Downtown Batavia

QT9 Software, maker of Quality Management Software, ERP, and MRP solutions, announced plans to relocate its global headquarters from Aurora to a newly redeveloped campus in downtown Batavia, Illinois. The former Pamarco factory, a 100-year-old industrial building along the Fox River, will be transformed into a modern, approximately 40,000-square-foot office environment that preserves the site’s historic character while creating a new hub for technology, innovation, and collaboration.

The headquarters project is part of a $12 million adaptive reuse initiative led by Manhattan Real Estate Ventures, LLC, under a Redevelopment Agreement authorized by the Batavia City Council. The investment will rehabilitate a long-neglected riverfront property into a state-of-the-art workspace designed to support QT9 Software’s continued global growth, while aligning with the City of Batavia’s Downtown Plan for sustainable revitalization and historic preservation.

QT9 Software’s relocation will initially bring approximately 65 employees to downtown Batavia, with staffing projected to grow to around 100 high‑skilled technology roles as the company expands. By establishing a new global headquarters in the heart of the city, QT9 Software will help honor the area’s industrial heritage while creating a modern, connected workspace that reflects its culture of innovation and long-term commitment to the region.

The redevelopment will preserve the historic industrial architecture of the former factory while modernizing its interior systems, infrastructure, and layout to meet the needs of a growing global technology organization. The project is expected to serve as a visual and economic catalyst for the broader riverfront district, complementing other recent investments and reinforcing Batavia’s position as a competitive destination for technology-driven businesses. Construction is anticipated to begin following final approvals and financing, with occupancy targeted before the end of 2028.

QT9 Software’s new headquarters will further strengthen the company’s ability to deliver pre‑validated QMS, ERP, and MRP solutions that connect quality and operations for manufacturers across life sciences, pharmaceutical, medical device, biotechnology, aerospace, and industrial markets. From Batavia, QT9 Software will continue to support customers in North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific with platforms designed to streamline operations, maintain compliance with global standards, and provide real-time visibility into critical quality and production data.

With its expanded presence in Batavia, QT9 Software plans to deepen its engagement with the local community, fostering new opportunities for collaboration, workforce development, and long-term economic stability. The company expects that the new headquarters, combined with Batavia’s evolving mix of historic properties and new development, will help attract and retain top technology talent while reinforcing QT9 Software’s role as a trusted partner for regulated manufacturers worldwide.

SkySelect Raises $9M to Modernize Aircraft Parts Procurement with AI

The platform helps airlines and MROs reduce costly aircraft-on-ground delays and excess inventory by using specialized AI to optimize sourcing across global aviation supply chains.

Estonian-founded SkySelect, an AI-powered procurement platform transforming how airlines and maintenance providers source aircraft parts, has secured $9 million in funding. 

Airlines face mounting pressure to modernize legacy procurement systems that leave them holding approximately $50 billion in excess parts inventory globally. 

When aircraft are grounded due to missing components, airlines scramble to procure parts through manual, fragmented processes that can take days or weeks. Aircraft-on-ground (AOG) incidents, where a plane is grounded waiting for parts, cost airlines around $30 billion each year. Airlines also carry more than $10 billion in excess inventory.

Advancements in procurement technology are enabling airlines and maintenance, repair, and overhaul organizations (MROs) to reduce the number of shipments by up to 30 per cent while keeping fewer parts in stock. This minimizes logistics costs and reduces carbon emissions, making operations more sustainable.

SkySelect pioneered the application of AI to aviation parts procurement before AI became ubiquitous in marketplace technology. Unlike generalized large language models, SkySelect’s platform employs specialized AI to match aircraft part requests with optimal suppliers across its network of thousands of vendors worldwide, providing real-time market visibility. This targeted approach enables just-in-time procurement, building operational resilience while reducing the need for costly safety stock.

The company also partners with major ERP solution providers to streamline the end-to-end part procurement process through seamless integrations. 

Since its launch, SkySelect has processed over $6 billion in transactions, with $1.3 billion completed in 2025 alone.

The company is currently landing approximately one new major client per month, with recent additions including JetBlue, Sun Country Airlines, Air Transport Services Group, Widerøe, and Vueling.

Verb Ventures and RockCreek co-led the round, with participation from SmartCap Green Fund, funded by the European Union NextGenerationEU, and existing investors Bain Capital Ventures and Lux Capital.

Erkki Brakmann, chief executive officer and co-founder of SkySelect, shared: “Legacy procurement systems and processes are fundamentally broken. Airlines invest over $40 billion annually in aircraft parts while simultaneously carrying $50 billion in excess inventory — a massive inefficiency that our AI-driven platform directly addresses. This growth funding validates both our early-mover advantage in applying AI to aviation procurement and the tangible value we’re delivering to customers.” 

Alexander Chikunov, founding partner at Verb Ventures, says: “SkySelect exemplifies the kind of B2B platform we back: a platform that brings transparency to opaque supply chains through data and automation. This new funding positions SkySelect to capture a larger share of the $40 billion aircraft materials market.”

Anahita Smeets, managing director at RockCreek, says: “RockCreek invests in AI and innovative companies that deliver both economic value and operational resilience. SkySelect addresses a critical bottleneck in aviation by using AI to match supply and demand for parts. With airlines facing billions in losses from aircraft-on-ground delays and excess inventory, we believe SkySelect’s platform offers a compelling solution at scale.”

The investment will be used to enhance its AI sourcing and procurement optimisation tools, helping airlines and MROs build a more reliable, predictable, and sustainable supply chain. SkySelect plans to hire across product development, data science, and customer success in its offices in the USA, India, and Estonia.

Premier Aircraft Announces That Michael Smelcer has Joined as New Regional Sales Manager

Premier Aircraft, the longest-standing and most trusted Diamond Aircraft dealer in America, announced today that it is welcoming Michael Smelcer to its growing team of aircraft sales professionals.

“Michael comes to Premier having already established himself as a skilled pilot and a knowledgeable and safety-minded aircraft sales representative,” stated Jeff Owen, vice president of sales for Premier Aircraft. “Like many of us, he started his private aviation journey working at a local FBO, and that early experience working around all kinds of aircraft and pilots was the foundation for his high level of professionalism, product knowledge, and a ‘customer-first’ mindset.”

“I’d met many of the Premier Aircraft team members at Oshkosh and other aviation events, and the company’s close-knit culture always seemed like it would be the perfect fit for my career and my family,” Smelcer said. “The way Premier Aircraft’s team treats each customer like a member of its extended family. I can’t imagine a better place to build my career.”

Owen said that, in addition to his role as a regional sales manager for the entire Diamond Aircraft line, as well as the other piston, turboprop, and jet aircraft represented by Premier Aircraft’s brokerage services, Smelcer will focus on showing flight schools and universities how they can leverage the Premier Advantage Flight School Leasing Program to affordably upgrade their training fleets.

Before joining Premier Aircraft, Smelcer was an aircraft sales associate for Central Flying Service in Little Rock, Arkansas.

Smelcer completed his flight training at Liberty University. A commercial and multi-engine rated pilot, he currently has over 900 hours and has flown 19 different piston, turboprop, and turbojet aircraft models. He and his wife, Ryleigh, live in Little Rock, Arkansas.

For more information about Premier Aircraft or the Premier Advantage Flight School Leasing Program, visit: premieraircraft.com

FlyHouse Acquires Jets MRO, Expands Maintenance Capabilities in Dallas and South Florida

FlyHouse has announced the acquisition of JetsMRO, an FAA Part 145 aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul operation, based in Dallas, specializing in business aircraft maintenance and aircraft-on-ground (AOG) support. The acquisition strengthens FlyHouse’s maintenance capabilities and expands its presence in two of the most active business aviation markets in the country.

“Maintenance is one of the most critical parts of aviation operations,” said Jack E. Lambert, Jr., CEO of FlyHouse. “Bringing JetsMRO into the House strengthens our maintenance infrastructure and establishes an important base in Dallas and South Florida. It’s another step in building the foundation that supports our growing platform and the partners we serve.”

JetsMRO was founded by Suresh Narayanan, whose background spans aircraft maintenance, operations, and aviation leadership. Under his direction, the company says it has built a reputation for technical expertise, experienced technicians and responsive service.

“Building JetsMRO has always been about raising the standard for aircraft maintenance,” said Suresh Narayanan, founder of JetsMRO. “Our focus has always been delivering dependable maintenance with speed, precision, and accountability. Joining FlyHouse allows us to expand that work on a larger platform while continuing to serve FlyHouse partners and operators across the most important aviation markets in the country.”

The addition of JetsMRO reflects FlyHouse’s continued investment in operational infrastructure as the company expands its charter, aircraft management, and aviation services platform while strengthening its presence in key business aviation markets.

Elliott Aviation Promotes Michael Parrish to Expanded Role as President and CEO

Elliott Aviation announced that Michael Parrish has been promoted to an expanded role as president and chief executive officer. Parrish was promoted to president of Elliott Aviation in January of 2025, and this promotion reflects his increased responsibility for delivering exceptional service to the company’s customers as well as guiding the company’s vision, driving growth initiatives and ensuring alignment across all business units. With 34 years of aviation industry experience, Parrish began his career as an aviation mechanic and holds an FAA Airframe & Powerplant license. His background spans aircraft parts eevelopment, business development, customer service, engineering, sales, marketing, and corporate MRO services, including avionics, maintenance, paint and interior.

Elliott says Parrish is known for his customer-first mindset and commitment to cultivating a strong employee culture and has played a critical role in strengthening Elliott Aviation’s market position and driving consistent business growth.

“I am honored to step into the expanded role of president and CEO at such an important moment for Elliott Aviation,” said Parrish. “Our team’s passion, expertise and dedication continue to move this company forward. I look forward to building on our strong foundation and guiding Elliott Aviation into its next era of innovation, quality, and customer commitment.”

Elliott Aviation is one of the industry’s leading MRO providers for midsize jets and turboprops, offering a full suite of maintenance, paint and interior services. The company is also recognized worldwide for its avionics upgrade capabilities, including its Garmin retrofit and Starlink WiFi upgrade expertise. Elliott has completed more than 450 Garmin G1000 and G1000 NXi installations in King Air aircraft, along with nearly 100 Garmin G5000 installations in Citation 560XL and Beechjet 400A/Hawker 400XP airframes.

Bob Calton, managing partner of Summit Park, the private equity owner of Elliott Aviation, shared his support for Parrish’s promotion. “Michael Parrish’s leadership, industry knowledge, and ability to foster a culture of excellence make him the ideal choice to guide Elliott Aviation into the future,” said Calton. “His vision, dedication, and passion for the aviation industry align perfectly with our mission of delivering exceptional service and quality. We are confident that expanding Michael’s role of President to include CEO responsibilities will ensure Elliott Aviation continues to thrive and remain a leader in the markets we serve.”

Summit Park acquired a majority interest in Elliott Aviation in 2020.

ASTRONAUTICS ENABLES MISSION-CRITICAL CONNECTIVITY FOR LIFE LINK III AW119 FLEET

Astronautics Corporation of America is providing its AeroSync Mission internet connectivity system and cellular data plan to Life Link III as an aftermarket solution for their AW119 helicopters. Life Link III delivers critical care air medical transport for patients requiring immediate access to advanced medical facilities across Minnesota and Wisconsin and across the Upper Midwest. 

Designed specifically for mission-critical operations, Astronautics’ AeroSync Mission enables in-air, air-to-ground, and on-ground Wi-Fi and cellular connectivity, transforming airborne connectivity from a limitation into a clinical and operational advantage. The system delivers a secure wireless hotspot designed to meet OEM-level standards for cybersecurity, quality, and reliability.

For air ambulance operators, AeroSync Mission supports faster decision making, improved coordination, and better preparedness upon arrival by enabling seamless data transfer between air medical crews and receiving trauma teams.  By providing uninterrupted access to clinical information during transport, the system helps ensure that hospitals are prepared before the aircraft touches down—when minutes matter most.

With always-on connectivity enabled by AeroSync Mission, Life Link III leverages Playback Health, a next-generation clinical scribe platform that offers ambient dictation designed to streamline the clinical documentation process.  AeroSync also opens the door to endless possibilities including patient data exchange, telehealth, and an added layer of communication in the event of communications failure. 

“For air ambulance operators, reliable connectivity isn’t a convenience — it’s a critical enabler of patient care,” said Matthew Frei, director of Connected Aircraft Solutions at Astronautics. “Installing AeroSync Mission on Life Link III’s AW119 fleet removes one of the biggest barriers to digital care in the air, delivering continuous, secure connectivity without adding complexity for flight crews or maintenance teams.  This installation also marks the expansion of our small, lightweight, all-in-one connectivity system from an OEM-only offering to a flexible aftermarket solution for operators seeking to modernize existing aircraft.”

Astronautics supports AeroSync Mission operators with a subscription-based cellular data plan, offering global connectivity through partnerships with internet service providers across numerous international markets. This approach provides operators with a streamlined and cost-effective way to maintain connectivity both in the air and on the ground, while simplifying IT management across the fleet.  AeroSync wireless devices have achieved regulatory certification for cellular and Wi-Fi operation in the United States and many countries worldwide.

Optional AeroSync Mission features include video streaming, video storage, aircraft data collection and export, and engine data diagnostic services. Astronautics specializes in customizing connectivity solutions to meet specific operator requirements, enabling scalable digital health and operational initiatives across air medical fleets.

Kontron Expands Its Defense Rugged Systems Portfolio with the HARAKAN-F2-2


 Kontron, provider of IoT/Embedded Computer Technology (ECT), announces the availability of the Kontron HARAKAN-F2-2 mission computer. Integrating the latest generation of Intel Xeon-D processors, Kontron’s new defense platform delivers VPX server-class performance, reliability and scalability for the most demanding defense use cases. These include AI, sensor fusion, cyber secure Tactical Gateways and real time analytics. The HARAKAN will be on display at Embedded World 2026, held from March 10–12 in Nuremberg, Germany.
 
Designed and manufactured in Europe, with full control over design, production and long-term support at a single site, HARAKAN-F2-2 benefits from a controlled and transparent supply chain, strong configuration management and long-term program continuity. The system is ITAR- and BAFA-free, enabling broader deployment flexibility across international defense programs.

Built on a modular architecture integrating VPX building blocks aligned to the SOSA® technical standard, HARAKAN-F2-2 allows systems integrators to develop VPX-based defense applications faster with reduced risks.

Sébastien Vitre, Kontron product manager, Rugged Systems, said: “With the latest HARAKAN variant, defense integrators can run multiple mission-critical applications at the edge –securely and reliably – even in the harshest environments. The platform combines high-performance compute with configuration flexibility, allowing customers to address evolving mission requirements – from tactical edge processing to complex, virtualized sensor fusion environments – while maintaining upgrade paths across the program lifecycle. With additional configurations under development, including GPU variants, the HARAKAN family is expanding into a complete portfolio for edge AI, multi-sensor fusion and accelerated analytics.”

The SWaP-optimized VPX form factor includes two 3U VPX slots, providing the flexibility to adapt processing, networking and I/O capabilities to evolving mission needs. Integrated cybersecurity features –including hardware root of trust, secure boot and system monitoring tools –help ensure mission integrity from power-on through operational deployment.

The Kontron HARAKAN-F2-2 is available now and offers a minimum product lifecycle of 10 years. Services are available to notify customers of significant changes to monitored frozen configurations and to ensure production beyond the product end‑of‑life date. Warranty extensions of up to five years are also available.

Business Aviation Icon Russ Meyer Dies at 93

Russell W. “Russ” Meyer Jr., the longtime chairman and CEO, and chairman emeritus, of Cessna Aircraft Company, has died at 93. Meyer, an aviation legend, led Cessna for 30 years, overseeing the development and launch of Citation business jets. He played a key role in stabilizing the industry through the General Aviation Revitalization Act of 1994, and earned top aviation awards including two Collier Trophies, the Wright Brothers Memorial Trophy and induction into the National Aviation Hall of Fame.

He believed in using aviation to help others, founding the Special Olympics Airlift — which has transported athletes to the games for forty years — and supporting workforce development by starting Wichita’s 21st Street Training Program to create career opportunities for under-served residents. His passion for youth development extended to many important charitable organizations and causes.

“Russ was a remarkable human being and one of the most respected leaders I have ever known. I held Russ in the highest regard, not only for his extraordinary business acumen, but for the integrity, humility and genuine care he showed for people at every stage of his life. He led with conviction, compassion and an unwavering belief that leadership carries a responsibility to serve something greater than oneself,” said Ron Draper, president and CEO, Textron Aviation. “On behalf of the entire Textron Aviation team, I extend my deepest condolences to Russ’s family, friends and all who had the privilege of knowing and working with him. I was truly privileged to know Russ as a colleague, a mentor and a friend.”

Meyer attended Yale University for undergrad and Harvard Law earning a doctor of law degree in 1961. He was known for his deep relationship building, including a lifelong friendship with golfer Arnold Palmer who would frequently fly into Wichita to have lunch with Meyer in the Cessna cafeteria.