Big Drone and Edith Cowan University Partner on BD150 Development

We are proud to announce that Big Drone has officially entered into a partnership agreement with Edith Cowan University to support the ongoing development of the BD150 aircraft program.

Through this collaboration, ECU’s outstanding facilities at the Joondalup Campus will provide undergraduate students with the opportunity to participate in a real-world aircraft development program. Students will gain valuable hands-on experience across multiple aspects of prototype engineering and aerospace development.

As part of this partnership, Big Drone will share decades of industry expertise in aeronautical design, engineering, and flight testing. We hope to mentor and inspire students who are considering careers within the aviation and aerospace sectors.

The partnership will also create internship opportunities, allowing students to gain direct exposure to the day-to-day operations of a professional aircraft design and development environment.

At Big Drone, this collaboration represents more than the development of a world-class aircraft. It is also an investment in the future of the aerospace industry by providing the next generation of engineers and aviation professionals with meaningful opportunities to contribute during their academic journey.

Development Activities

Students participating in the program may gain experience in areas including:

• Prototype construction and component design
• Aircraft weight reduction initiatives
• Engine testing and modification
• Flight testing activities

As the prototype program progresses, additional opportunities will be introduced in several critical areas of aircraft development, including:

• Flight test planning, data collection, and reporting
• Regulatory compliance processes
• Flight safety principles
• Safety management systems
• ISO standards and quality procedures

This partnership marks an exciting step forward for both Big Drone and ECU as we continue advancing innovation within the Australian aerospace industry.