Airtrek Robotics
i-trek
Wingwalking and FOD walks consume significant manpower, yet human errors in manual handling cause damage, impacting the defense fleet readiness.
Why it mattersWe are developing an autonomous robot that detects and removes Foreign Object Debris (FOD) in the airfield. This solution aims to protect fire jets and improve combat readiness.
About
Problem
Preventable mishaps from poor wingwalking and incomplete FOD walks causes millions in repair cost and impact defense fleet readiness.
Solution
Airtrek's autonomous robot automate wingwalking and FOD walks, mitigating aircraft damage and freeing up service members for mission-critical tasks.
Field Validation
Tested in a civilian airport and hangar space; Not in a defense setting. Technology Maturity (TRL): TRL 7 in the non-defense setting, tested in Lunken Airport (LUK) under heavy rain.
Strategic Advantage
IP protection through a pending patent and a provisional application.
Go-to-Market
Access: Existing connections with Air Force CMSgt., Lt. Col, AFLCMC/ROD, and InfiniteTactics that provides ATO'd secure cloud platform for multiple customers in the Air Force and Navy. Dual-Use: Potential: Aircraft ground operators in the non-defense market (e.g., FBO, airlines) face same challenges with manual wingwalking and FOD management, with estimated cost of $20 billion each year.
Team
Three co-founders specialize in autonomous systems and robotics with a track record of developing 10+ autonomous vehicles. Most notably, they successfully developed and deployed an autonomous airport baggage tractor at several US airports in their previous startup where they worked together.
Primary User
Aircraft Maintenance Squadrons (AMXS)
Problem
Wingwalking and FOD walks consume significant manpower, yet human errors in manual handling cause damage, impacting the defense fleet readiness.