AAM startup Ascendance links with KLM’s MRO unit in VTOL deal

The Air France group offered a first sign this week that it’s preparing to follow other airlines in embracing emerging advanced air mobility (AAM) aircraft and services, with the announcement that its AFI KLM E&M maintenance unit is partnering with Toulouse-based vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) plane developer Ascendance Flight Technologies.

The memorandum of understanding between Ascendance and maintenance, repair, and operations specialist AFI KLM E&M is the first signal that the Air France-KLM tandem is preparing to greet and potentially integrate AAM craft and operations into its traditional airline activity. The accord focuses on Ascendance’s five-passenger Atea plane, and will begin by exploring future work between the two companies in the areas of line maintenance, component repair, specialized training of mechanics, and airworthiness management.

The move follows steps by other legacy airlines stake out positions in next-generation…