Airplane manufacturing giant Boeing to launch blockchain and AI focused company ‘SkyGrid’

American airplane manufacturing giant Boeing, in collaboration with SparkCognition, has announced its plans to launch a new blockchain and artificial intelligence (AI) based company in its efforts to enable “the future of urban aerial mobility.”

The announcement follows a previous collaboration between Boeing and SparkCognition to deliver unmanned aircraft system traffic management (UTM) solutions. At the time, Boeing established a new organization, Boeing NeXt, in order to revolutionise the transportation ecosystem.

Based in Texas, the new company, called ‘SkyGrid,’ will focus on developing a software platform to ensure the safe, secure integration of autonomous cargo and passenger air vehicles. Founder and CEO of SparkCognition Amir Husain will serve as the CEO of SkyGrid.

SkyGrid’s platform will use blockchain technology, AI-enabled dynamic traffic routing, data analytics and cybersecurity features to go beyond unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) traffic management (UTM). Using the platform, SkyGrid customers will be able to safely perform a broad range of missions and services using UAS, including package delivery, industrial inspections and emergency assistance.

"The Boeing and SparkCognition partnership is unmatched in industry today," said Steve Nordlund, vice president and general manager of Boeing NeXt. "SkyGrid is building the digital infrastructure that will make safe, seamless commercial and personal transport possible for billions of people around the world."

Founded in 2013, SparkCognition builds AI systems and enables its customers to analyze complex data, empower decision making, and transform human and industrial productivity.

"SkyGrid merges expertise in AI, blockchain, security and aviation to deliver breakthrough technological advancements for the rapidly-growing urban aerial mobility industry," said Husain. "By offering scalable and robust capabilities in a single, integrated framework, SkyGrid will make large-scale air vehicle applications more practical and accessible."