Loading…

Ford International Airport FLITE Program Selects Companies to Pilot Air Travel Technology Solutions

FLITE, a first-of-its-kind program in the aviation industry, is helping shape the future of aviation by providing grant funding and pilot-testing opportunities to companies developing air travel technologies and services.

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich., Jan. 23, 2025 – The Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority, in partnership with Avflight Grand Rapids Corporation, the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC)Seamless VenturesSouthwest Airlines® and the West Michigan Aviation Academy, announced the seventh cohort of companies selected to receive more than $200,000 in total grant funding through the Ford Launchpad for Innovative Technologies and Entrepreneurship (FLITE).

“We are proud to welcome five new companies to the FLITE program that will pilot test their technologies at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport,” said Alex Peric, COO of the Ford International Airport Authority. “We appreciate the commitment of our partners in supporting companies that will shape the future of aviation.”

FLITE, a first-of-its-kind program in the aviation industry, is helping shape the future of aviation by providing grant funding and pilot-testing opportunities to companies developing air travel technologies and services. The five companies in this round include:

  • Arrow AnalyticsUtilizes AI and sensors to uncover new data sources.
  • Civilized CyclesProvides safe, sustainable and affordable electric vehicles.
  • Metro Consulting AssociatesOffers civil engineering and land surveying solutions for energy, community development, and infrastructure.
  • Synaptic AviationLeverages AI to monitor and optimize apron operations while enhancing safety protocols and fuel efficiency.
  • Tubular NetworkAutomates the movement of goods in tubes using AI-driven delivery shuttles, providing safe, eco-friendly, and efficient logistics.

“We’re thrilled to be part of the FLITE program at Ford International Airport,” said Marc Liu, chief revenue officer at Civilized Cycles.

This partnership provides a unique opportunity to showcase the capabilities of our electric cargo trikes in a real-world setting and demonstrate how they can revolutionize airport operations.

“FLITE aligns perfectly with our mission to provide sustainable and efficient transportation solutions, and we’re excited to contribute to the growth of Michigan’s innovative mobility ecosystem.”

As Michigan’s lead advocate for business development, job creation and community growth, the MEDC has played a key role in fostering innovation. Through the Office of Future Mobility and Electrification (OFME), the MEDC has provided grant funding to support the companies participating in FLITE, to further the program’s mission and drive advancements in Michigan’s vibrant mobility and technology sectors.

The five companies will pilot their technologies at Ford International Airport this winter and spring:

  • Arrow Analytics will test a camera-based system using AI to identify carry-on baggage and streamline boarding.
  • Civilized Cycles will showcase their electric vehicle as a short-distance cargo mover within the airport terminal.
  • Metro Consulting Associates will estimate future electrical demand and propose energy infrastructure solutions.
  • Synaptic Aviation will test AI and computer vision to improve efficiency and accountability in ground operations.
  • Tubular Network will explore logistics solutions to enhance baggage handling before and after TSA screening.

FLITE, which recently received the 2024 Best Small and Emerging Airport Innovation Award from Airports Council International World and Amadeus, has supported more than 30 companies, awarding over $1 million in total grant funds across seven rounds.
Applications for the next round of FLITE are being accepted now through June 30, 2025, at michiganbusiness.org/mobility-funding.

About Synaptic Aviation
Synaptic Aviation, headquartered in Miami, Florida, is an AI software company trusted by customers in the aviation sector worldwide. Synaptic Aviation’s accurate, scalable, and proprietary AI-powered software utilizes computer vision to capture real-time information about its customers’ operations. Synaptic Aviation’s software solutions increase operational visibility and detect risks, enabling customers to elevate safety standards, improve compliance and significantly increase operational efficiency. Learn more at www.synapticaviation.com.

About the Gerald R. Ford International Airport
The Gerald R. Ford International Airport is Michigan’s second-busiest airport, serving nearly four million passengers annually with seven commercial airline partners offering nonstop flights to over 30 destinations. Managed and operated by the Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority, the airport supports over 40,000 jobs and contributes more than $7 billion to the local economy each year. For more information, visit www.flyford.org or follow the airport on Facebook, X, LinkedIn, and Instagram @FlyGRFord.

View source here.

Share article