Surf Air signs first OperatorOS contract, part of its software push

Surf Air Mobility Inc. took on SprintBach Aviation, an Idaho-based jet operator, as its first OperatorOS customer.

The software platform is part of SurfOS, Surf Air’s AI-enabled software for aviation owners, brokers, and operators.

SurfOS is Surf Air’s in-house software, powered by Palantir Technologies and Foundry platforms, which the operator hopes to sell to more customers.

Amid financial pressure, the software is part of Surf Air’s push to invest in new technologies and diversify its revenue sources.

“OperatorOS has already proven efficiencies within our own airline operations,” said Liam Fayed, Surf Air co-founder, in a press release. “And we are now bringing this software to operators across the industry.”

Fayed continued:

‘This agreement marks the official commercial launch of OperatorOS. We are confident that Sprintbach is the first of many, and we are building toward a broader base of operators live on the platform by the end of the year.’

SurfOS includes BrokerOS, OperatorOS, and OwnerOS. Each is for different customers in the private aviation industry.

SurfOS was first deployed in-house, with Surf Air reporting positive results. Wheels Up became the launch customer for BrokerOS last June.

Meanwhile, it is not clear yet whether OwnerOS has any customers, pending a response.

SprintBach Aviation is an Idaho-based jet operator with nine Pilatus PC-12 in its fleet.

“Having OperatorOS powered by Palantir matters to us because it means our operational data is actually connected and working for us,” said Mark Hankinson, SprintBach president, in a press release. “Not sitting in separate spreadsheets.”

Hankinson continued:

‘What we want from OperatorOS is simple: one system our dispatchers, pilots, and mechanics actually use, a clear picture of the whole operation, and less manual work on our team. We’re glad to be the first external operator on the platform.’