Autonomous flight innovator Xwing has recruited aerospace industry leader Fred Cromer to be its chief financial officer as the company works to begin commercial cargo services with Cessna Grand Caravan aircraft converted to remotely piloted operations. Cromer is the former president of Bombardier Commercial Aircraft and also of International Leasing Finance Corporation, and he previously held airline CFO roles at Continental Express and ExpressJet Holdings.
Earlier this year, California-based Xwing raised $40 million in a funding round. After successfully demonstrating a complete gate-to-gate operation of the system, it is seeking FAA approval to operate its Caravan demonstrator aircraft under an experimental certificate with its Part 135 operating subsidiary San Antonio Air Charter. The company also recently partnered with the Caravan’s manufacturer, Textron, to explore opportunities to market conversion packages.
