AURA Network Systems builds a proprietary, safety-critical communications network to enable remotely piloted commercial flights beyond visual line of sight and to operate as a Command and Control Communication Service Provider (C2CSP). The network uses FCC-licensed aviation spectrum in the 450 MHz band and includes an airborne radio and voice comms module to support command-and-control data, telemetry, and air traffic control voice service. AURA demonstrated these capabilities at the National Advanced Air Mobility Industry Forum in Springfield, Ohio and during mid-July demonstrations in Western Maryland. The company has a four-year cooperative R&D agreement with the FAA and two Space Act agreements with NASA, and it launched a coast-to-coast secure network in 2020. Founded in 2019 and based in McLean, VA, AURA says its technology increases the commercial viability of autonomous operations and targets emerging markets such as autonomous air cargo and urban air mobility. The company stated the recent $75 million financing will accelerate core development work and provide financial runway to launch commercial services. AURA Network Systems builds and operates the nation’s only coast‑to‑coast network using licensed aviation spectrum (450‑MHz band) to provide secure, reliable voice and data communications for unmanned and manned aircraft. The company’s core product is an FAA‑compliant nationwide communications network designed to enable beyond‑visual‑line‑sight (BVLOS) operations and advance AAM/UAM deployments. AURA emphasizes spectrum acquisition and demonstrations with government partners to integrate air taxis, cargo delivery aircraft and other advanced air vehicles into the national airspace. Recent regulatory milestones include an FCC ruling enabling expanded operations at all altitudes and selection by NASA as a National Campaign partner, plus participation on an FAA fast‑tracking rulemaking committee. Leadership has decades of aviation and telecommunications experience and the company says the technology increases the commercial viability of autonomous operations. The latest funding will support continuing commercial services for manned aviation, spectrum acquisition, and ongoing technology demonstrations with government agencies and partners.

Total raised

$106M

Funding rounds

2

Latest round

Equity

Latest activity

Nov 2022