From developing guidance algorithms to flying competitive aerobatics, Philippe Sabbagh has built his career around aviation. As a Staff Autonomy Engineer on Wisk’s Autonomy and Airspace Integration team, he works at the intersection of autonomy, human factors, and airspace integration. 

Before joining Wisk nearly four years ago, Philippe worked at Northrop Grumman and Lockheed Martin on complex missile defense systems. Outside of work, he is a commercial pilot, certified flight instructor (CFII), and competitive aerobatic pilot. He holds an MS in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Michigan and a BS in Mechanical Engineering from New York University.

We caught up with Philippe to learn more about his path, his perspective on autonomy, and what continues to drive his passion for flight.

Where did you grow up, and were there any early signs of the career path you’d eventually take?

I was actually born in Brazil, a country that coincidentally has a very rich aviation heritage and aerospace industry. Looking back, I think I’ve been drawn to aviation since I became sentient. Growing up I was absolutely obsessed with airplanes, space, and science. There was never any conscious deliberation about what I wanted to do with my life. It was obvious to me and everyone who knew me; I was going to be a “rocket scientist” and a pilot.

What originally attracted you to Wisk, and how has your role evolved since you first joined?

I was excited to join Wisk because it was an opportunity to get in on the ground floor and be part of a nascent field that may transform the future of transportation - hard to pass that up! 

Since joining I’ve had the opportunity to grow into a role that stands at the intersection of autonomy, human factors, and airspace integration.  I am helping develop a safe and certifiable system that enables a human supervisor to manage multiple autonomous aircraft concurrently as they fly in the existing National Airspace System.  

Designing the concept of operation, supervisor’s role, and human-machine interface is interconnected with so many other functional areas at the company.  That makes for a fun challenge and an opportunity to work with a wide variety of engineers and experts we have at Wisk.

When you think about your time at Wisk so far, what stands out most?

The unabashed ambition to design for the future.  This industry presents complex technological and regulatory challenges; some we know, and others we’re still discovering. What stands out is how we continue to press forward with optimism and dynamism, even as the landscape evolves.

As a pilot, how does your flight experience influence the way you design autonomous systems that share the sky with crewed aircraft?

Statistically speaking, I am the most unreliable component of my aircraft.  Pilot error is the leading cause of air accidents, not mechanical issues or weather.  Making flying safer is why I'm stoked about more autonomy in the airspace, although that presents some challenges when it comes to interacting and cooperating with ATC and other air traffic.  

At work I often fall back on my flying experience to inform the nuances of these interactions that may not be easily extracted from published procedures or standards.  This helps us be better equipped to design a system that will be safer, more efficient, and integrate with the existing National Airspace System.

What first drew you to aerobatic flying, and what keeps you hooked?

Aerobatics is the apex of flying.  It's also physically exhausting, mentally demanding, requires rigorous training, and a deep understanding of how to fly an airplane inside and outside of the flight envelope.  What keeps me in love with aerobatics is the challenge and the experience of the ultimate man-machine connection. When I’m strapped into the seat, my aircraft becomes an extension of myself.

Outside of work, how do you spend your time?

Winguit skydiving, riding motorcycles, and throwing weight around at the gym!

Just for fun: Window or aisle?

Window seat is the only right answer.  🙂

A big thank you to Philippe for sharing his story and perspective. Interested in joining Wisk? Explore open roles here.