Sign In

Edward Dolejsi

Founder and President, Autonomous Flight Systems Inc.

Edward Dolejsi is the President and Founder of Autonomous Flight Systems Inc. (AFSI), a company specializing in the design and development of uncrewed vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) aircraft. Based in Delta, British Columbia, Canada, he has a strong background in electronics and mechanical engineering, which has been instrumental in his leadership within the uncrewed aviation sector since the early 2000s. Dolejsi is recognized for pioneering advancements in tilt-rotor VTOL technology and has developed patent-pending innovations aimed at improving stability during flight transitions without relying on complex computer systems.12

Career Highlights::

  • Autonomous Flight Systems Inc. (1997 - Present): Focuses on creating large payload, long-range unmanned aircraft capable of both vertical and horizontal flight. The company aims to revolutionize various sectors including aerial firefighting, search and rescue, and infrastructure surveillance.2
  • Zero Time Aircraft Corporation (2008 - 2021): Led aircraft restorations and upgrades.
  • Gemini Technology Inc. (1984 - 1990): As President and CEO, he guided a team to develop groundbreaking technologies in the personal computer industry, including multi-function chipsets.1

Dolejsi's entrepreneurial spirit is complemented by his commitment to community service, notably supporting organizations that train guide dogs for children with autism.1 His extensive experience spans multiple roles across various technology-focused companies, showcasing his ability to bridge engineering with business innovation.13

Highlights

May 17 · linkedin

Exciting News!   I am thrilled to announce that Autonomous Flight Systems Inc. has been awarded a Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I Army contract for our cutting-edge advanced wing technology!   Our innovative technology enables aerodynamically stable transitions from vertical to horizontal flight without computer assistance. This breakthrough will enhance the performance of vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) aircraft transitioning to winged horizontal flight while providing significant safety and performance advantages in various operational scenarios.   I want to extend a huge thank you to our dedicated team for their relentless hard work and to the Army for recognizing the potential of our technology. We are excited to embark on this journey and contribute to the future of advanced VTOL aviation!

#Innovation #Aviation #Technology #SBRI #ArmyContract #VerticalFlight #HorizontalFlight #Aerodynamics

May 12 · linkedin

Kids are like sponges; they absorb and lean fast.

Daniel Raymer’s “liking,” a school project, which he peppered with suggestions on improvements, prompted me to write this post, which reminded me of a delightful “learning moment’ from my past with my grandson Theoren.

Ever since he was a toddler, Theoren loved planes. I recall him calling me “Granpa, Grandpa, plane, plane” while pointing to the sky. Our house was under the approach path to runways 25L and 25R to YVR Vancouver airport.

At around age two, Theoren would sit on my lap, flying RC models or MS simulators. He loved the Beaver on floats. His favourite route was Friday Harbor FHR to Abbotsford YXX. I admit, his endurance frequently outlasted mine, as he insisted on flying back and forth several times.

I used to own a Piper Colt, my favourite plane – just pleasurable, simple flying. Before Theoren’s fourth birthday, his parents asked him what he wanted for his birthday. Theoren resolutely announced: “I want to fly with Grandpa in his big plane!” I am sure Theoren’s protective parents had a long discussion and changed their diapers (my thoughts, LOL) before they granted Theoren his wish.

On the day of his birthday, early December, the weather was not great, with light rain and low clouds. It got much better towards the middle of the day, and we were ready to go.

As I did before the simulator flights, I explained to Theoren all he needed to know before our flight, and we proceeded to taxi to runway 12; it is 13 now as our Earth is slowly adjusting position.

We lifted off in a smooth air, and grinning ear to ear, Theoren shouted: ”Grandpa, the ocean, the ocean,” as he pointed to his right. I made my radio call to the tower and told the controllers about my precious passenger. The controllers took turns and, to Theoren’s delight, wished him Happy Birthday.

We did a couple of circuits, and it was time to come down and meet Mom. I will never forget this wonderful day as long as I live. Theoren is a teen now, into creating music and musing about becoming a pilot.

Related Questions

What are some of the key innovations Edward Dolejsi has introduced in the VTOL sector?
How did Edward Dolejsi's work at Gemini Technology Inc. impact the Personal Computer industry?
What challenges did Edward Dolejsi face while developing the Quad Multi-mission Aerial Platform?
How does Autonomous Flight Systems Inc. plan to revolutionize air support sectors?
What are the main differences between the aircraft developed by Edward Dolejsi and traditional helicopters?
Edward Dolejsi
Edward Dolejsi, photo 1
Edward Dolejsi, photo 2
Add to my network

Location

Delta, British Columbia, Canada