Collins Aerospace co-creates Aviation X Lab in unique global collaboration focused on the next era of air travel

DUBAI (Oct. 31, 2019) – Collins Aerospace Systems, a unit of United Technologies Corp. (NYSE:UTX), is participating as a founding member of the recently launched Aviation X Lab – a unique, long-term collaboration with Airbus, Emirates Airlines, GE Aviation and Thales focused on delivering the next era of air travel.

“At Collins Aerospace, our vision is to collaborate with our customers, partners and innovators to redefine aerospace and deliver what we imagine today as great advancements in air travel for the future,” said Henry Brooks, president, Customer & Account Management for Collins Aerospace. “We look forward to bringing our technology and resources to the table as we launch our first challenge round and solicit and validate new concepts that will eventually serve as game-changers in our increasingly connected world."

With a comprehensive portfolio of offerings that enable a more intelligent, more connected and more electric aerospace and defense industry – along with a proven history of numerous industry firsts and a global team of more than 16,000 engineers – Collins Aerospace is uniquely positioned to advance solutions generated by the X Lab.

Aviation X Lab will identify, support, fund and make the next set of big ideas in the transportation space accessible globally, with a bold vision to positively impact the lives of one billion people. Challenge applications can be submitted by individuals, teams, corporations, academic institutions, start-ups, innovators and activists. The deadline is Jan. 21, 2020. More information is available at theaviationxlab.com.

About Aviation X Lab

Aviation X Lab is a bold and ambitious aviation-specific incubator that brings together five global aviation giants: Emirates airline, Thales, Collins Aerospace, GE Aviation and Airbus. UAE telecom provider du is the Lab’s Digital Innovation Partner. Based in Area 2071 at the Emirates Towers, Aviation X Lab was founded in October 2017 with an MOU signed in the presence of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. In partnership with Dubai Future Foundation, Aviation X Lab aims to enhance the air travel experience, innovate and create the next era of aviation through a sustained program of funding and collaboration with global players in the innovation ecosystem. Its vision is to impact one billion people through innovation. Aviation X Lab works in cycles of 12 months with five key active phases: launching challenges; sourcing start-ups and corporates globally; validating concepts; conducting rapid feasibility; and sourcing funding. Through this journey, X Lab offers hands-on support, logistics, research, resources, peer feedback, mentorship, and close collaboration.