Reliable Robotics raises $115M at $1B+ valuation to advance FAA certification

Autonomous aviation software startup Reliable Robotics announced on October 20, 2026, that it has raised $115 million in a Series D extension, bringing the total round size to $275 million and valuing the company at over $1 billion. The raise consists of $90 million in equity led by returning investor Nimble Partners and a $25 million term loan from Silicon Valley Bank.

Founded in 2017 by Robert Rose, formerly of SpaceX flight software and Tesla's Autopilot program, and Juerg Frefel, the company is developing a 'continuous autopilot engagement' system. This allows pilots to remain in the cockpit while controlling engine start, taxiing, take-off, and landing via a touchscreen. Rose expects the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to approve its first system within 18 to 24 months.

The funding arrives ahead of critical regulatory milestones. Reliable Robotics is pursuing certification on four fronts: the continuous autopilot system, technology to move pilots to ground control stations (at least three years away), an in-house solid-state radar (targeted for end-of-2027 certification), and operational approval for its cargo carrier, Reliable Airlines. The company states its autonomy system requires no changes to the US National Airspace System and that the FAA has accepted its certification plan and compliance method.

Although final commercial operating approval is pending, Reliable Robotics generates revenue through contracts with multiple branches of the US military and participation in the FAA’s Advanced Air Mobility Integration Pilot Program. The company previously reported commitments for more than 200 systems from commercial and military customers. New funds will support fleet expansion, production capacity, and engineering hires, with new offices opening in Seattle and San Diego.