Top 15 Air Traffic Control Software Investors in Europe
Top 15 Air Traffic Control Software Investors in Europe
The air traffic control software industry in Europe plays a crucial role in maintaining safety and efficiency in aviation. It includes companies that develop software systems for managing air traffic, enhancing communication, and improving surveillance technology. As air traffic continues to recover and expand post-pandemic, this sector is poised for growth. Emerging technologies like artificial intelligence and drone traffic management are seeing increasing adoption, reshaping airspace management. Additionally, the European Union's focus on greener aviation further drives innovation, as stakeholders aim to implement data-driven solutions to reduce environmental impact while ensuring seamless air travel across the continent.
The investors in this list range from corporate giants to venture capital firms. Headquartered in key financial hubs like Paris, London, and Stockholm, these entities vary in size—from small teams to multinationals employing thousands. Founded between 1847 and 2019, their deal counts in 2024 reflect a strong commitment to enhancing the air traffic control software industry, with total investments soaring above 300. This array of investment types showcases diverse interests in safety, operational efficiency, and technological advancements that are crucial for future growth.
Top 15 Air Traffic Control Software Investors in Europe
1. Bpifrance French Tech Accélération
- Website: bpifrance.com
- Type: Venture Capital
- Headquarters: Paris, Île-De-France, France
- Founded year: 2015
- Headcount: 1-10
- Number of deals in 2024: 198
- LinkedIn: bpifrance-french-tech-acc%c3%a9l%c3%a9ration
Bpifrance French Tech Accélération is a venture capital firm based in Paris, Île-De-France, France, founded in 2015. As a public entity and financial institution, Bpifrance supports entrepreneurs and businesses in France and internationally through various services, including direct funding and private equity investments. The firm aims to foster entrepreneurship and innovation, helping businesses navigate growth and international expansion. Notably, Bpifrance has been involved in several transactions relevant to the air traffic control software sector, such as Innov'Atm, which raised over $1 million in a venture round, indicating a focus on air traffic management technologies. Additionally, their investment in OpenAirlines, which develops eco-flying software, further highlights their engagement in the aviation technology space. These transactions demonstrate Bpifrance's commitment to supporting innovative companies that could impact air traffic control and related fields.
2. Seraphim Space
- Website: seraphim.vc
- Type: Venture Capital
- Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
- Founded year: 2016
- Headcount: 11-50
- Number of deals in 2024: 27
- LinkedIn: seraphim-capital
Seraphim Space is a London-based venture capital firm founded in 2016, specializing in SpaceTech investments. They provide funding and support to startups in the space technology sector through various investment funds and an accelerator program. Notably, Seraphim Space has invested in Altitude Angel, a UK-based drone management platform that raised USD$4.5 million in Series A funding, which they led. This investment highlights their interest in technologies that intersect with air traffic management, particularly as drones become more prevalent in airspace. Additionally, they have participated in funding rounds for Spire Global, a satellite-powered data company, which, while not directly related to air traffic control, contributes to the broader context of space-based data and analytics that can support air traffic management systems. Overall, Seraphim Space's investments indicate a willingness to engage with technologies that could impact air traffic control, making them a relevant player in this space.
3. European Investment Bank (EIB)
- Website: eib.org
- Type: Corporate
- Headquarters: Luxembourg
- Founded year: 1958
- Headcount: 1001-5000
- Number of deals in 2024: 99
- LinkedIn: european-investment-bank
The European Investment Bank (EIB) is a public entity based in Luxembourg, established in 1958, that provides financial services including loans, equity investments, guarantees, and advisory services to support sustainable projects across various sectors. In 2024 alone, EIB was involved in 99 investments, showcasing its active role in financing initiatives that promote growth and job creation. Notably, EIB has made significant investments in companies relevant to the air traffic control software industry. For example, it provided €10 million to Quantum-Systems GmbH, a market leader in small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (sUAS), to expand operations and meet technological demands in mapping and surveillance, which are critical for air traffic management. Additionally, EIB's venture debt investment of €20 million in Spire Global supports the development of satellite constellations and software applications that could enhance air traffic control capabilities. These transactions highlight EIB's engagement in sectors that are closely related to air traffic control software, making it a relevant investor in this space.
4. Thales
- Website: thalesgroup.com
- Type: Corporate
- Headquarters: Meudon, Île-De-France, France
- Founded year: 1979
- Headcount: 10001+
- Number of deals in 2024: 5
- LinkedIn: thales
Thales Group is a technology company based in Meudon, Île-De-France, France, specializing in advanced electrical systems and devices for the aerospace, defense, transportation, and security sectors. Founded in 1979, Thales serves a diverse clientele, including governments and commercial enterprises, with solutions that enhance operational efficiency and safety. In 2024, Thales made significant strides in the air traffic control software domain by acquiring AstraUTM, a UAE-based start-up focused on unmanned air system traffic management, which is crucial for modern air traffic control systems. Additionally, Thales acquired AvioVision, a Belgian company known for its Electronic Flight Bag (EFB) applications, which are utilized by numerous airlines and aircraft, further solidifying its position in the aviation sector. Thales has also participated in funding rounds for Airspace Link, a company involved in airspace management, indicating its active interest in air traffic control technologies.
5. EQT Group
- Website: eqtgroup.com
- Type: Private Equity
- Headquarters: Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
- Founded year: 1994
- Headcount: 1001-5000
- Number of deals in 2024: 30
- LinkedIn: eqt-partners
EQT Group is a prominent investment firm based in Stockholm, Sweden, specializing in private equity, infrastructure, real estate, growth equity, and venture capital. Founded in 1994, EQT serves institutional investors by managing diverse investment portfolios across multiple sectors and geographies. Notably, EQT has made significant investments in the aviation sector, including the acquisition of EIS Aircraft Group, which provides products and services for civil and military aviation. This acquisition highlights EQT's engagement with the aviation industry, which is closely related to air traffic control. Additionally, EQT's investment in Unilode Aviation Solutions and IFS further demonstrates their interest in aviation-related technologies and services, although these transactions do not directly pertain to air traffic control software. Overall, EQT's diverse investment strategy and involvement in aviation-related companies position them as a potential player in the air traffic control software space.
6. Siemens
- Website: siemens.com
- Type: Corporate
- Headquarters: Munich, Bavaria, Germany
- Founded year: 1847
- Headcount: 10001+
- Number of deals in 2024: 11
- LinkedIn: siemens
Siemens AG, founded in 1847 and headquartered in Munich, Bavaria, Germany, is a leading technology conglomerate with a workforce of approximately 320,000 employees. The company specializes in various sectors, including industrial automation, energy solutions, rail transport, and health technology. Siemens has made significant strides in the mobility sector through strategic acquisitions, such as Aimsun SL, which focuses on transportation software, and HaCon Ingenieurges. mbH, known for its planning and scheduling systems for public transportation. These acquisitions enhance Siemens' capabilities in digitalization and mobility, positioning them as a key player in the transportation technology landscape, which is relevant to air traffic control software.
7. Safran
- Website: safran-group.com
- Type: Corporate
- Headquarters: Paris, Île-De-France, France
- Founded year: 2005
- Headcount: 10001+
- Number of deals in 2024: 9
- LinkedIn: safran
Safran is a Paris-based aerospace manufacturer and defense contractor, founded in 2005, with a workforce exceeding 10,000 employees. The company specializes in aircraft equipment, propulsion systems, and defense technologies, serving a diverse clientele that includes aircraft manufacturers and military organizations. Safran is committed to sustainability and technological advancement, which is reflected in its investment strategy. Notably, Safran has made several strategic investments in companies relevant to air traffic control and management. For instance, their investment in SkyFive AG, a company focused on advanced communication technologies that can enhance air traffic management, showcases their interest in this sector. Additionally, their participation in the funding round for Vyoma GmbH, which specializes in space situational awareness and space traffic management, further emphasizes their commitment to innovative solutions that improve safety and operational efficiency in aviation. These transactions highlight Safran's role as a proactive investor in technologies that align with air traffic control and management.
8. Airbus
- Website: airbus.com
- Type: Corporate
- Headquarters: Blagnac, Occitanie, France
- Founded year: 2003
- Headcount: 10001+
- Number of deals in 2024: 6
- LinkedIn: airbusgroup
Airbus SE is a leading aerospace manufacturer based in Blagnac, Occitanie, France, specializing in the design and production of commercial aircraft, helicopters, defense systems, and space technology. Founded in 2003, Airbus serves a global customer base, including airlines, military organizations, and space agencies, providing innovative solutions that enhance connectivity, security, and exploration. The company is committed to sustainability and advancing aerospace technology. Notably, Airbus has made strategic acquisitions in the air traffic control software domain, including Metron Aviation in 2011, which focuses on air traffic management solutions, and NavTech in 2015, a provider of flight operations products and services. These acquisitions reflect Airbus's commitment to enhancing its digitalization and services offerings, positioning it as a key player in the air traffic control software industry. Additionally, Airbus Helicopters' acquisition of Aerovel in 2024 further demonstrates its interest in advanced mission capabilities, which may intersect with air traffic management technologies.
9. Momenta
- Website: momenta.one
- Type: Venture Capital
- Headquarters: Engelberg, Obwalden, Switzerland
- Founded year: 2012
- Headcount: 11-50
- Number of deals in 2024: 7
- LinkedIn: momentapartners
Momenta is a venture capital firm based in Engelberg, Obwalden, Switzerland, founded in 2012. The firm specializes in industrial impact and digital transformation, providing strategic investments and advisory services to Fortune 500 companies and innovative startups. Their focus is on enhancing operational efficiency and driving sustainability across various sectors, including energy, manufacturing, smart spaces, and supply chain. Notably, Momenta has participated in funding rounds for companies like Fixposition, which is involved in autonomous navigation technology, indicating a potential interest in sectors that could relate to air traffic control software. Other investments include Luffy AI, Senseye, and Axino Solutions, showcasing their diverse portfolio in technology-driven companies.
10. Octopus Ventures
- Website: octopusventures.com
- Type: Venture Capital
- Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
- Founded year: 2008
- Headcount: 51-200
- Number of deals in 2024: 37
- LinkedIn: octopus-ventures
Octopus Ventures is a London-based venture capital firm founded in 2008, focusing on backing founders and startups across various sectors such as B2B Software, Bio, Climate, Consumer, Deep Tech, Fintech, and Health. They provide funding and strategic support to entrepreneurs, helping them navigate the challenges of building and scaling their businesses. Notably, Octopus Ventures has invested in Altitude Angel, a key player in the air traffic management sector, which highlights their engagement in the air traffic control software industry. Additionally, their investment in companies like Swiipr Technologies, which aims to enhance travel technology, and their involvement in various tech-focused funding rounds, demonstrate their commitment to supporting innovative solutions that could intersect with air traffic control applications.
11. Amadeus
- Website: amadeus.com
- Type: Corporate
- Headquarters: Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Founded year: 1987
- Headcount: 10001+
- Number of deals in 2024: 3
- LinkedIn: amadeus
Amadeus IT Group, S.A., founded in 1987 and based in Madrid, Spain, is a leading travel technology provider that offers a wide range of software solutions for the global travel and tourism industry. With over 10,000 employees, Amadeus operates through a SaaS model, providing integrated solutions that streamline operations for airlines, hotels, travel agencies, and other travel-related businesses. Notably, Amadeus has made significant investments in companies that enhance its capabilities in the travel sector. For instance, their acquisition of AirIT in 2015 aimed to bolster their airport technology capabilities in North America, indicating a strategic move towards improving airport operations, which is closely related to air traffic control. Additionally, Amadeus has participated in funding rounds for companies like Volantio, which focuses on optimizing airline operations, and Chooose, a climate tech company, showcasing their diverse investment strategy within the travel ecosystem.
12. Ardian
- Website: ardian.com
- Type: Private Equity
- Headquarters: Paris, Île-De-France, France
- Founded year: 1996
- Headcount: 1001-5000
- Number of deals in 2024: 21
- LinkedIn: ardian
Ardian is a prominent investment management firm based in Paris, specializing in private equity, real assets, and credit solutions. Founded in 1996, Ardian has established a global presence and focuses on sustainable finance, aiming to create lasting value for its clients, which include institutional investors, family offices, and pension funds. In recent years, Ardian has made significant investments in the aviation sector, including a majority stake in Alstef Group, a provider of automated and robotic solutions for airports, and a significant equity interest in Alvest, which supplies airport ground support equipment. These strategic investments highlight Ardian's commitment to enhancing operational efficiencies in the aviation industry, making it a relevant player in the air traffic control software landscape.
13. Shell
- Website: shell.com
- Type: Corporate
- Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
- Founded year: 1907
- Headcount: 10001+
- Number of deals in 2024: 20
- LinkedIn: shell
Shell plc is a multinational oil and gas company based in London, England, founded in 1907. It operates primarily in the energy and chemicals sectors, providing essential products such as fuels, lubricants, and chemical solutions. In recent years, Shell has diversified its investment portfolio, engaging in various sectors including aviation and technology. Notably, Shell participated in a Series A funding round for i6 Group Limited, a company focused on air traffic management solutions, alongside other significant players in the aviation industry. This investment, announced in November 2020, highlights Shell's interest in enhancing operational efficiencies in air traffic control. Additionally, Shell Ventures has invested in Kongsberg Digital, a Norwegian industrial software company, which may also have applications in air traffic control systems. These transactions indicate Shell's strategic interest in sectors that could benefit from advancements in air traffic management and control technologies.
14. LocalGlobe
- Website: localglobe.vc
- Type: Venture Capital
- Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
- Founded year: 2019
- Headcount: 11-50
- Number of deals in 2024: 15
- LinkedIn: localglobe
LocalGlobe is a venture capital firm based in London, England, founded in 2019. The firm partners with exceptional founders and companies at various stages of growth, from pre-seed to scale-up and public markets. LocalGlobe provides venture capital funding and investment management services, focusing on supporting startups in navigating their growth challenges. Notably, LocalGlobe participated in a seed funding round for Zamna, a blockchain startup that raised $5 million to automate airport security checks, indicating their interest in innovative solutions within the aviation sector. Additionally, they have been involved in other technology-focused investments, such as Calipsa and Zencargo, showcasing their broader commitment to technology companies.
15. CDP Venture Capital SGR
- Website: cdpventurecapital.it
- Type: Venture Capital
- Headquarters: Rome, Lazio, Italy
- Founded year: 2015
- Headcount: 51-200
- Number of deals in 2024: 41
- LinkedIn: cdp-venture-capital-sgr-fondo-nazionale-innovazione
CDP Venture Capital SGR is a venture capital firm based in Rome, Italy, founded in 2015. The firm focuses on supporting startups and innovative companies across various sectors in Italy, providing financial backing and strategic resources for growth. In 2024, CDP Venture Capital has been particularly active, with 41 investments. Notably, they led a €20 million Series B funding round for Leaf Space, a company involved in satellite ground segment services, which could relate to air traffic management technologies. Additionally, they invested in D-Orbit, an Italian company specializing in space logistics and transportation, which raised €55.9 million in a Series C funding round in September 2024. This involvement in aerospace and logistics positions CDP Venture Capital as a potential investor in air traffic control software, as these sectors often overlap in technology and innovation.
Air Traffic Control Software Insights: Key Investors in Europe
Investor | Headquarter | Size | Founded | Deals 2024 |
---|---|---|---|---|
Bpifrance French Tech Accélération | Paris, Île-De-France, France | 1-10 | 2015 | 198 |
Seraphim Space | London, England, United Kingdom (UK) | 11-50 | 2016 | 27 |
European Investment Bank (EIB) | Luxembourg | 1001-5000 | 1958 | 99 |
Thales | Meudon, Île-De-France, France | 10001+ | 1979 | 5 |
EQT Group | Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden | 1001-5000 | 1994 | 30 |
Siemens | Munich, Bavaria, Germany | 10001+ | 1847 | 11 |
Safran | Paris, Île-De-France, France | 10001+ | 2005 | 9 |
Airbus | Blagnac, Occitanie, France | 10001+ | 2003 | 6 |
Momenta | Engelberg, Obwalden, Switzerland | 11-50 | 2012 | 7 |
Octopus Ventures | London, England, United Kingdom (UK) | 51-200 | 2008 | 37 |
Amadeus | Madrid, Madrid, Spain | 10001+ | 1987 | 3 |
Ardian | Paris, Île-De-France, France | 1001-5000 | 1996 | 21 |
Shell | London, England, United Kingdom (UK) | 10001+ | 1907 | 20 |
LocalGlobe | London, England, United Kingdom (UK) | 11-50 | 2019 | 15 |
CDP Venture Capital SGR | Rome, Lazio, Italy | 51-200 | 2015 | 41 |
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