Rapita Systems, a provider of qualifiable software verification tools for the aerospace and defence sectors, and Avionyx, an aerospace engineering company owned by Joby Aviation and specialising in next-generation compliance solutions, have announced a strategic partnership aimed at accelerating the development and certification of complex avionics programmes across the Americas. Certifications include compliance with DO-178C Design Assurance Level A (DAL A).
Some of the most significant delays affecting new aircraft programmes, including next-generation electric aircraft and unmanned aerial systems, stem from software compliance requirements. Every line of code incorporated into an aircraft must be tested and verified against stringent certification standards, such as the Federal Aviation Administration’s DO-178C. Traditionally, this verification process can take several years, incur costs running into millions of pounds or dollars, and depend on highly specialised expertise that remains in limited supply.
“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.” stated 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.” added Tom Ferrell, General Manager at Avionyx.
The partnership between Avionyx and Rapita is expected to accelerate the development of next-generation aviation technologies by materially improving the efficiency and robustness of software verification. By enabling companies to identify and rectify software defects within hours rather than weeks, the collaboration significantly shortens the path to compliance and market entry. Increased automation reduces reliance on labour-intensive manual testing, lowering development costs for both emerging entrants and established aerospace manufacturers. At the same time, the joint capability supports DO-178C Design Assurance Level A certification, the most stringent classification, ensuring that flight-critical systems meet the highest standards of safety and reliability.
