Exploring Blockchain's Role in the Aerospace Industry: A Conversation with Laurent Philippe, CTO of BoostAeroSpace

The aerospace industry is undergoing a major transformation, driven by innovations in digital technologies such as blockchain. Kepler Digitals hosted a live interview with Laurent PHILIPPE , the CTO of BoostAeroSpace, where he shared his expertise and insights into the evolving role of technology in the aeronautical sector.

Kepler’s News

Before diving into the discussion with Laurent, Yannick Beunardeau , CEO of Kepler Digitals, shared exciting updates from Kepler’s ongoing projects. The company continues to make significant progress, particularly in the industrial side of its operations. A key highlight from Yannick, was a recent meeting with ATR , a subsidiary of Airbus and Leonardo, exploring the potential adoption of blockchain technology for their systems. In addition, Kepler is applying to be part of Aerospace Valley , a competency center in aeronautics between Bordeaux and Toulouse.

Yannick also discussed the ongoing developments in blockchain and its application to aviation. Kepler is currently working on several parallel developments, including an MVP (Minimum Viable Product) with MB aviation to integrate blockchain into the certification of aviation training processes. There’s also progress being made with Dragon Fly Pad, a drone company, with MVPs expected to be ready by June.

Lastly, Yannick addressed the concerns around the AVIA token, reassuring the community:

Despite current market conditions, the AVIA token’s value will rebound as the market improves.

Aviation, Blockchain, and BoostAeroSpace’s Vision

Following Yannick’s updates, the spotlight turned to Laurent Philippe, who introduced himself and his career journey. Laurent shared his background in computer science and cybersecurity, with a career that spans various industries, including cryptography and finance. His transition into the aerospace sector is particularly interesting, as he brings a wealth of expertise in digital transformation, machine learning, and obviously blockchain.

As the CTO of BoostAeroSpace, Laurent is responsible for overseeing all technical aspects of the company’s mission to digitalize aerospace, aviation, and defense supply chains. Boost Aerospace, a hub created by Airbus , Dassault Aviation , Safran , and Thales , focuses on providing digital solutions that help companies in the aerospace supply chain collaborate more effectively. Their platforms, including AirSupply and AirConnect, work to streamline procurement and integration processes across the supply chain.

Laurent discussed how blockchain fits into this vision, especially given the decentralized nature of the supply chain. Blockchain's ability to ensure traceability and immutability is a powerful tool for addressing issues such as counterfeit parts and cybersecurity in aviation.

The Role of Blockchain in Aerospace and Supply Chain

One of the key points of discussion was the potential for blockchain to tackle challenges in the aerospace supply chain. Laurent highlighted how blockchain can be leveraged for parts traceability, ensuring that all components used in an aircraft are genuine and have been sourced from trusted suppliers. Blockchain also plays a significant role in certifying the individuals who work on aircraft, ensuring they are properly trained and qualified, and their credentials are securely recorded.

Furthermore, Laurent and Yannick explored the idea of using blockchain to fight counterfeiting in aviation. Counterfeit parts are a growing concern, and blockchain can provide a transparent, tamper-proof system that tracks parts through their entire lifecycle. This would help ensure that every component used in aircraft construction or maintenance meets safety standards and is authentic.

Blockchain’s Adoption and Challenges

While blockchain’s potential in aerospace is clear, there are challenges to overcome in terms of adoption. As Yannick pointed out, one major obstacle is the slow pace of change within the industry. Large companies often struggle to adopt new technologies due to their entrenched practices and legacy systems. However, both Yannick and Laurent remain optimistic that as blockchain proves its worth, especially in terms of security and efficiency, the industry will gradually embrace it.

Laurent emphasized that the need for blockchain in aerospace is already apparent to major players in the industry. The challenge, however, lies in overcoming cultural barriers and resistance to change. Nevertheless, as younger generations take on leadership roles within companies, adoption will likely accelerate.

The Future of Blockchain in Aviation

Looking ahead, both Kepler Digitals and BoostAeroSpace are optimistic about blockchain's role in the future of aviation. As Yannick mentioned :

The aviation industry is expected to double in size by 2040, which will require increased safety and sustainability measures. Blockchain can play a key role in meeting these demands, from securing the supply chain to ensuring the safety of aircraft components and the people who work on them.

BoostAeroSpace's work is a testament to the fact that blockchain has a real and transformative potential for the aerospace industry. By focusing on transparency, traceability, and security, blockchain can drive significant improvements in the way the industry operates, making it safer, more efficient, and more sustainable.

Conclusion

The live interview with Laurent Philippe provided valuable insights into the intersection of blockchain technology and the aerospace sector.

Kepler Digitals, with its innovative approach and focus on blockchain in aviation, is a key player in this transformation. With exciting developments on the horizon, both companies are poised to contribute to a safer, more connected, and more sustainable aviation industry.