Designers of software intended to run in airborne systems have many things to consider that are different than designers of other safety systems. The highest level of safety is required. Governmental authorities regulate the systems associated with these devices and the software that runs on them.
Agencies like the FAA in the United States or the EASA in the European Union verify and rely on conformance to the DO-178C and related RTCA standards. Governmental authorities impose these standards on device manufacturers that intend to sell their equipment to aircraft manufacturers and other devices used to ensure civilian safety.
While the military and space industries do not require these stringent standards, they do recognize these and similar standards and often expect their suppliers to conform to these standards, as well.
