❯ Reliable Robotics adds $115 million in financing at a valuation above $1 billion

Equity and debt extend the funding runwayTechCrunch reported on October 20 that autonomous-flight developer Reliable Robotics secured $115 million in additional financing: $90 million in equity led by Nimble Partners and $25 million in debt from Silicon Valley Bank. The report puts its expanded Series D at $275 million, its valuation above $1 billion and total funding at approximately $380 million.

Retrofitting existing aircraftReliable builds systems for installation on existing aircraft, targeting aviation operators. Its first product automates engine startup, taxiing, takeoff and landing while a pilot remains onboard. Its Reliable Airlines operation flies cargo using six Cessna Caravans, providing experience connecting technology development with airline operations.

Capital supports a lengthy certification processThe company is pursuing approvals covering flight automation, ground-based control, collision-avoidance radar and airline operations. CEO Robert Rose expects certification of its initial onboard automation system in 18 to 24 months. Moving pilots to ground-control stations is at least three years away. Additional capital supports development, validation and operations ahead of wider commercial use.

▮ SIGNALAutonomous-flight financing must cover development, certification and operations, including the approvals required to commercialize systems retrofitted to existing aircraft.