Transforming Cargo and Military Aircraft at an Innovative Tech Port

Launched in 1992, Knight Aerospace specializes in the design and fabrication of modular and palletized systems that can quickly transform the functionality of aircraft. The specialized, self-contained units can be loaded onto cargo and military aircraft in two hours or less to help quickly and easily transform the aircraft’s interior.

According to Knight Aerospace, these systems are particularly important to military and humanitarian relief organizations due to their ability to be installed in aircraft that can reach areas commercial aircraft can’t—such as temporary or compromised runways.

The company’s medical modules can transform cargo aircraft into fully functional emergency rooms or intensive care units that allow doctors to immediately stabilize and begin treatment of patients while in flight. Knight says the modules have been used to enhance care and save lives of both wounded soldiers and victims in disaster areas.

To transform non-commercial aircraft interiors into passenger-friendly seating, Knight’s palletized seating kits can be customized to provide configurations that include seats, lavatories, galleys and luggage areas. The company says the enclosed passenger units can transport world leaders or command and control personnel.

In addition to customized modular units, Knight provides repair and overhaul of aircraft structures, major ground support equipment, and avionics and electrical systems. The company has capability to re-engineer or reverse engineer aircraft parts and install mechanical and electrical systems. According to Knight, its MRO customers include Lockheed Martin, StandardAero, the U.S. Air Force and other military organizations worldwide.

Relocation to the Port will bring Knight Aerospace closer to some of its industry partners, including GDC Technics and StandardAero—which recently began expanding its work at the location to support engines for Boeing 757 and Lockheed C-130 aircraft. Knight’s specialized units are currently in use on C-130 aircraft, as well as a variety of other military transport aircraft such as the Airbus A400M, Boeing C-17 and Embraer KC-390.

Knight Aerospace president and CEO Bianca Rhodes says the company is excited to be closer to both its industry partners and to “take advantage of what the Port has to offer, especially with respect to its upcoming innovation center and its capabilities.”

The Port’s innovation center, which it is hoping to have up and operational in approximately 12-15 months, will include a technology arena, co-working facilities for prototyping and a technology museum.

“We believe initiatives with respect to telemedicine and advanced testing equipment will be especially helpful, and of course its involvement in the community will help with our workforce and training activities,” says Rhodes. “With our upcoming facility at the Port, we will have the necessary room, flexibility and strategic support to build upon this success, meet our clients’ needs and tap into a world of new opportunities.”