PearlQ Software and Network Solutions (“PearlQ”), a Doha-based information technology company led by His Excellency Sheikh Abdulla Khalifa Al Thani, and RAero LLC (“RAero”), a United States developer of aviation training technology, have announced a joint venture to develop and deliver digital aviation training solutions across Qatar, the Middle East and North America. The companies describe the venture as a first step toward a broader, long-term strategic relationship, giving PearlQ and RAero a framework to work together on the marketing, promotion, development and delivery of RAero’s aviation training technologies, software and courseware, while each retains the flexibility to grow its own business and evaluate further opportunities together, including potential strategic investment, joint technology development and new capabilities in Qatar, subject to mutual agreement and due diligence.

RAero brings a refreshed approach to aviation training built around digital courseware, a modern learning management system and training designed for current learners, with a roadmap structured in phases covering commercial, corporate and business, and military aviation, as well as the emerging field of electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft. PearlQ will lead client engagement, programme management and local support, including Arabic-language localisation, while RAero will contribute its learning management system, aviation courseware, training platforms and technical expertise.

RAero is led by professionals with deep roots in aviation training. Brent Birdwell began building aviation courseware in the 1990s, when training was delivered by PowerPoint, floppy disk and CD-ROM; he was a founder of CPaT Global, a well-known aviation training company, and exited the business in 2019. Amit Bahuguna, President of RAero, is a Canadian airline pilot who brings a practitioner’s perspective on how pilots learn and how training tools perform in real airline operations.

The collaboration reflects the goals of Qatar National Vision 2030, including a diversified, knowledge-based economy and a growing role for Qatari companies in advanced technology, arriving as continued aircraft orders drive demand for skilled pilots, cabin crew, engineers and ground personnel in Qatar’s aviation sector.

“Qatar has built one of the world’s most respected aviation sectors, and its future depends on the people behind it. My vision is for Qataris to excel in the technologies that will shape tomorrow, and aviation is central to that future. This joint venture is about building that capability here, in Qatar, in line with Qatar National Vision 2030. It is the beginning of a long-term relationship, and I look forward to what we will build together,” said His Excellency Sheikh Abdulla Khalifa Al Thani, CEO and Managing Director of PearlQ.

“I started building aviation courseware in the 1990s, when training meant PowerPoint slides on floppy disks and CD-ROMs. The technology has changed enormously, but the goal hasn’t: train smarter, fly safer. It is an honor to work with the leadership of His Excellency Sheikh Abdulla, whose vision for Qatar’s future makes this partnership special. Together we will give Qatari operators a new generation of training,” said Brent Birdwell of RAero LLC. “As an airline pilot, I know first-hand that good training is the foundation of safe operations. We are entering Qatar as a committed, long-term partner, not simply a supplier. RAero’s roadmap spans commercial, corporate, military, and eVTOL aviation, and we are proud to share that journey with PearlQ and with Qatar,” said Amit Bahuguna, President of RAero LLC.