Critical Software and Airbus Launch Critical FlyTech

Headquartered in Coimbra with a second office in Lisbon, Critical FlyTech will support Airbus and its affiliated companies in developing high-assurance, mission-critical, certifiable software across key aerospace domains—from avionics to cabin system technologies and next-generation connectivity systems.

The new company will be 51% owned by Airbus and 49% by Critical Software, blending Airbus’ extensive aerospace expertise with Critical Software’s decades of experience in building safe, reliable embedded systems. This also represents another significant investment by Airbus in Portugal, reinforcing the country’s growing role in the future of global aerospace.

Launching early next year, Critical FlyTech will be led by Ricardo Armas. The venture plans to start with approximately 120 specialists, expanding to 300 employees by the end of 2028. As part of Airbus’ global innovation ecosystem, the team will provide strategic capabilities essential to safety, performance, and certification—expertise that is increasingly critical as aerospace systems become more digital and complex.

“This partnership represents a new chapter in our journey to build a better and safer world. Critical FlyTech embodies what Critical Software has always stood for: the belief that great engineering, curiosity, and courage can have a lasting impact. Together with Airbus, we’re turning that belief into reality, creating technology that not only flies but also inspires,” said Gonçalo Quadros, Chairman of Critical Software.

“With a proven track record of innovation and technological firsts, Airbus is proud to partner with companies that aim to shape history. This joint venture allows us to fully embrace Critical Software’s agility and expertise to align our embedded software footprint with the growing digitalization of aerospace. Critical FlyTech’s foundation represents the realization of that ambition and strengthens both companies’ roles as strategic partners in aerospace innovation,” said Marc Fischer, Senior Vice President Engineering – Cabin & Cargo, Airbus.

Adding to the vision behind the new venture, Ricardo Armas, CEO of Critical FlyTech, emphasized the mission guiding the team: “By combining the strengths of Airbus and Critical Software, we are building a new center of excellence for high-assurance aerospace software. Our mission is clear: to deliver technology that meets the highest standards of safety, reliability, and innovation, and that shapes the future of aviation, space, and defense.”

Critical FlyTech is just preparing for takeoff, and there’s much more to come. Stay up to date with milestones, team growth, and technology breakthroughs by visiting the company’s website and following its LinkedIn page.

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