Cockpit Innovation

Cockpit Innovation operates as an airline venture hub and venture capital arm focused on driving innovation in the aviation and air travel industry. Established by EL AL Israel Airlines, they aim to enhance innovation and invest in early-stage entrepreneurs with disruptive technologies. Their strategy centers on sourcing, developing, training, applying, and investing in cutting-edge solutions in aerospace and air travel, while building partnerships with startups globally for digital transformation. They offer tailored solutions to enhance processes and promote sustainable growth, bridging the gap between aviation and innovation by leveraging expertise and network within both domains. Cockpit Innovation's approach includes an innovation program called *Fast Pass to POC* that connects startups with EL AL and other leading aviation partners, providing a direct path for testing and implementing solutions in real-world operations. They target areas such as customer experience, operational efficiency, sustainability, cybersecurity, fintech, and AI, offering startups pilot opportunities, expert guidance, and strategic partnerships to scale within the aviation sector. They provide value to their portfolio companies by facilitating business collaborations within the aviation sector, leveraging their deep knowledge and expertise. This is achieved through strategic investments and innovation services aimed at propelling collaborations and supporting exceptional technologies. Cockpit Innovation also cultivates corporate venture initiatives, such as the Cybersecurity for Aviation program and customized innovation programs with stakeholders like Lufthansa Systems. The firm has also shown the ability to facilitate acquisitions, demonstrated by the acquisition of Claire by AMEX. Recent activity indicates a focus on resilience in the Israeli tech sector amidst complex national security environments. The firm highlights examples of EL AL's engagements with startups across areas like passenger experience, predictive maintenance, sustainability, and digital transformation. Cockpit Innovation appears to support the development and deployment of technologies that are adaptable to real-world situations and address critical needs within the aviation industry.