Dufour Aerospace has officially chosen Connova as the primary supplier for the composite airframe of its groundbreaking uncrewed tilt-wing aircraft, Aero2. The collaboration marks a significant milestone in the Aero2 program, with Connova set to produce the key sub-assemblies of the airframe at their facility in Villmergen, Switzerland.
The lightweight all-composite airframe plays a vital role in the exceptional performance of the Aero2 aircraft, making Connova a crucial partner in the program's success. The partnership is intended to extend beyond the initial contract for four vehicles, with discussions already underway to expand the contract value and increase the number of deliveries in 2024.
Connova's extensive experience in designing and manufacturing aerospace-grade composite structural components, including for esteemed Swiss aircraft manufacturer Pilatus, positions them as a valuable asset for the Aero2 program. The decision to rely on Swiss-based production ensures the delivery of high-quality, precision-engineered components.
Taylan Toprak, Head of Sales & Project Management at Connova, expressed the team's pride in being selected as a main supplier for this exciting project. He emphasized the unparalleled professionalism and dedication of Dufour Aerospace in developing and promoting the Aero2 aircraft, highlighting the company's strong belief in its success and their commitment to increasing production capacities to meet growing demands in the coming years.
Simon Bendrey, Head of Design at Dufour Aerospace, commended Connova for their wealth of experience and expertise as an established composite manufacturer in the aerospace and automotive industries. Bendrey highlighted Connova's meticulousness and professionalism in manufacturing the wings for Dufour's current Aero2 experimental flight test aircraft using a novel patent-pending design and manufacturing method. He expressed confidence in achieving the stringent build standards required by regulators and customers, underscoring the anticipation of a prosperous future together.
The partnership between Dufour Aerospace and Connova not only solidifies their joint commitment to advancing aerospace technology but also paves the way for the Aero2 aircraft's success, as it benefits from Connova's expertise in producing lightweight and high-quality composite airframes. As the collaboration progresses, the industry eagerly awaits the continued innovation and advancements brought about by this dynamic partnership.