Joanna Bailey

Editor, Simple Flying

Joanna has worked in publishing for more than a decade and is fast becoming a go-to source for commercial aviation analysis. Providing commentary for outlets including the BBC, CNBC, and others, she works closely with IATA, AviaDev and various airlines and suppliers to get the inside track on the global marketplace.

Jon Howell

CEO & Founder, AviaDev

Jon has worked within the African and European aviation events industries since 2012. Jon joined Bench Events in 2015 and created AviaDev, a content platform and annual route planning conference for Africa. It is now established as the largest event of its kind on the continent having been held in Kigali 2016 and 2017 and then Cape Town in 2018 and 2019 with a future edition planned for Madagascar.

Additionally, Jon established AviaDev Insight Africa, the only podcast dedicated to African aviation in 2018. This boasts an audience in over 160 countries globally and over 50,000 listeners.

Jon became a key person of influence during the coronavirus pandemic, by delivering content and insight using digital means, including delivering Africa’s first virtual event for Aviation, Tourism and Hospitality, Africa Tomorrow in July 2020.

Jon is passionate about empowering the next generation of aviators. He co-founded Aviators Africa Academy in 2018, which has delivered outreach events across the continent. He was also appointed a Global Ambassador for Gorilla Conservation for his fundraising efforts which include climbing the three largest mountains in the UK in a single weekend wearing a gorilla suit.

The Hon John Sharp AM

Deputy Chairman. Regional Express (Rex)

John has extensive experience in aviation, regional air services and was the former Federal Minister for Transport and Regional Development in the Federal Government. He is an aviator, having been a licensed pilot of both fixed-wing and rotary-wing aircraft.

He was a member of the House of Representatives of the Commonwealth Parliament for 14 years (1984 – 1998) and retired from the House of Representatives in 1998 to establish his own high-level aviation and transport consulting company. He was Honorary Federal Treasurer of the National Party of Australia from 1999 to 2017.

John is Chairman of Pel-Air Aviation Pty Ltd and serves as a director on the boards of Power and Data Corporation Pty Limited; Luerssen Australia; Australian Maritime Shipbuilding Export Group; the Tudor House Foundation, and the Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal, as well as a Trustee and Board Member of John McKeown House.

John is a former Chairman of the Aviation Safety Foundation of Australia; Winifred West Schools Foundation, and the Parsons Brinkerhoff Advisory Board, an engineering and design company operating throughout Australia and the region. He has previously served as a director of Airbus Group, Australia Pacific and has been a member of the University of Wollongong Vice Chancellor’s Advisory Board. He has been a director of the French-Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and Co-Chair of the Cancer Council of NSW Southern Highlands Branch. He recently retired as a member of the Climate Change Authority which he served on for six years.

John was also previously appointed a director of the Flight Safety Foundation following his receipt of the Foundation’s Presidential Citation for Aviation Safety - the first Australian to receive this award. He is involved in a number of voluntary and community organisations and named a Member of the Order of Australia for significant service to the people and Parliament of Australia, to the aviation industry, and the community.

Joanna Bailey

Editor, Simple Flying

Joanna has worked in publishing for more than a decade and is fast becoming a go-to source for commercial aviation analysis. Providing commentary for outlets including the BBC, CNBC, and others, she works closely with IATA, AviaDev and various airlines and suppliers to get the inside track on the global marketplace.

Philip Goh

Regional Vice President Asia-Pacific, IATA

Philip Goh is Regional Vice President, Asia-Pacific, for the International Air Transport Association (IATA). IATA's mission is to represent, lead and serve the airline industry, and brings together some 290 airlines, including the world's largest. Flights by IATA’s members account for 82% of global air traffic.

Philip represents IATA in the Asia-Pacific region, which comprises 37 countries and territories and more than 40 IATA member airlines. He leads IATA’s efforts on safety, sustainability and recovery of international travel from COVID-19.

Philip has more than 30 years of experience in the airline industry and has extensive experience working throughout the Asia-Pacific region. He has held various senior management roles at Singapore Airlines, including as Regional Vice President for South East Asia, for South West Pacific, and for West Asia and Africa. He also served a three-year term in London at SIA’s then associate airline company Virgin Atlantic Airways, and as SIA Country General Manager for Japan prior to his various regional responsibilities.

Philip holds a Masters in Business Administration and Bachelor of Science in Estate Management with Honours from the National University of Singapore. He speaks English and Chinese.

Brendan Sobie

Independent Analyst and Consultant, Sobie Aviation

Brendan Sobie has been working in the aviation industry for over 20 years as a writer, analyst and consultant. Brendan is currently working as an independent analyst and consultant, having established in 2019 the Singapore-based firm Sobie Aviation. He served as chief analyst for CAPA from 2011 to 2019, based in Singapore, and as an editor for Flightglobal from 2000 to 2011, based in the US, Singapore and UK.

Brendan has extensive experience covering emerging markets in Asia Pacific as well as in Africa, the Middle East and Latin America. He is a prolific author, writing over the last year several white papers, studies and media commentaries related to the COVID-19 crisis. Brendan provides strategic advice for a wide range of companies including airports, airlines, aircraft leasing companies, development banks, investment banks and IT suppliers.

Brendan is a widely recognized thought leader on aviation issues in Asia Pacific. Brendan gives frequent presentations, is an instructor on aviation courses and is often quoted by the international media. Recent television appearances include Bloomberg and CNBC. Brendan has a degree in industrial and labor relations from Cornell University in New York.

Olivier Moana Bole

President, FLY CORALway

25+ years of managerial experience in an international context, sharing experience within dynamic Teams in public and private ambitious entities.

The professional life allowed me to implement and manage business oriented organizations focused on Stakeholders objectives, bottom-line performance, problem-solving attitude and Customers satisfaction.

I act now as an experienced Consultant with demonstrated results in airlines/aviation and tourism, deeply concerned by sustainable and socio-responsible AERO developments, showing resilience in an active evolving world.

Sumit Singh

Deputy Editor, Simple Flying

Brendan Sobie

Independent Analyst and Consultant, Sobie Aviation

Brendan Sobie has been working in the aviation industry for over 20 years as a writer, analyst and consultant. Brendan is currently working as an independent analyst and consultant, having established in 2019 the Singapore-based firm Sobie Aviation. He served as chief analyst for CAPA from 2011 to 2019, based in Singapore, and as an editor for Flightglobal from 2000 to 2011, based in the US, Singapore and UK.

Brendan has extensive experience covering emerging markets in Asia Pacific as well as in Africa, the Middle East and Latin America. He is a prolific author, writing over the last year several white papers, studies and media commentaries related to the COVID-19 crisis. Brendan provides strategic advice for a wide range of companies including airports, airlines, aircraft leasing companies, development banks, investment banks and IT suppliers.

Brendan is a widely recognized thought leader on aviation issues in Asia Pacific. Brendan gives frequent presentations, is an instructor on aviation courses and is often quoted by the international media. Recent television appearances include Bloomberg and CNBC. Brendan has a degree in industrial and labor relations from Cornell University in New York.

Jon Howell

CEO & Founder, AviaDev

Jon has worked within the African and European aviation events industries since 2012. Jon joined Bench Events in 2015 and created AviaDev, a content platform and annual route planning conference for Africa. It is now established as the largest event of its kind on the continent having been held in Kigali 2016 and 2017 and then Cape Town in 2018 and 2019 with a future edition planned for Madagascar.

Additionally, Jon established AviaDev Insight Africa, the only podcast dedicated to African aviation in 2018. This boasts an audience in over 160 countries globally and over 50,000 listeners.

Jon became a key person of influence during the coronavirus pandemic, by delivering content and insight using digital means, including delivering Africa’s first virtual event for Aviation, Tourism and Hospitality, Africa Tomorrow in July 2020.

Jon is passionate about empowering the next generation of aviators. He co-founded Aviators Africa Academy in 2018, which has delivered outreach events across the continent. He was also appointed a Global Ambassador for Gorilla Conservation for his fundraising efforts which include climbing the three largest mountains in the UK in a single weekend wearing a gorilla suit.

Jayson Goh

Managing Director, Changi Airport Group’s Airport Operations Management

Joanna Bailey

Editor, Simple Flying

Joanna has worked in publishing for more than a decade and is fast becoming a go-to source for commercial aviation analysis. Providing commentary for outlets including the BBC, CNBC, and others, she works closely with IATA, AviaDev and various airlines and suppliers to get the inside track on the global marketplace.

John Grant

Partner, AviaDev Consult powered by MIDAS Aviation

John is a partner at MIDAS Aviation, providing marketing intelligence, data and strategic advice to the industry.

He was formerly Executive Vice President at OAG, the world’s leading aviation data supplier, and prior to that was Managing Director of a UK based aviation consultancy that was twice voted the UK’s best aviation practice by the UK Airport Operators Association. John continues to work with OAG on major consultancy projects and provides industry support and strategic advice to OAG management.

A regular speaker at industry events such as AviaDev, PATA Conferences and ACI events, John is also an industry advisor to the British Broadcasting Company (BBC) and regular appears on business channels such as BBC World News, CNN and Bloomberg.

In his successful consultancy career John has worked around the globe on major strategic projects including Malaysia Airports as a retained consultant for more than ten years, Lima Airport Peru, Amsterdam Schiphol, Perth Western Australia and for Frankfurt Airport on their overseas investment assets.

John Grant

Partner, AviaDev Consult powered by MIDAS Aviation

John is a partner at MIDAS Aviation, providing marketing intelligence, data and strategic advice to the industry.

He was formerly Executive Vice President at OAG, the world’s leading aviation data supplier, and prior to that was Managing Director of a UK based aviation consultancy that was twice voted the UK’s best aviation practice by the UK Airport Operators Association. John continues to work with OAG on major consultancy projects and provides industry support and strategic advice to OAG management.

A regular speaker at industry events such as AviaDev, PATA Conferences and ACI events, John is also an industry advisor to the British Broadcasting Company (BBC) and regular appears on business channels such as BBC World News, CNN and Bloomberg.

In his successful consultancy career John has worked around the globe on major strategic projects including Malaysia Airports as a retained consultant for more than ten years, Lima Airport Peru, Amsterdam Schiphol, Perth Western Australia and for Frankfurt Airport on their overseas investment assets.

Juraj Toth

Managing Director, AviaDev Europe

Juraj is a passionate aviation marketer who believes flying is a force of good. He worked for Košice Airport, Slovakia for 7 years. He built the marketing department from scratch and was responsible for creating and implementing marketing strategies that totally repositioned the airport. Juraj played a leading role within the airport team focused on air service development that managed to bring several new airlines to Košice. Since June 2018 he´s been enjoying his new role with AviaDev. In May 2019 he was appointed as Managing Director for AviaDev Europe.

Captain Curtis Brunjes

Managing Director of Aviate & Pilot Strategy, United Airlines

Capt. Brunjes is the Managing Director of Aviate & Pilot Strategy at United Airlines where he is responsible for the development of United’s industry-leading pilot development program, as well as overseeing the launch of the United Aviate Academy which currently boasts over 8,000 applicants in a pool that is 75% diverse (women and people of color).

Capt. Brunjes flies Boeing 787 for United Airlines and has been an FAA-designated Part 121 Check Airman for over 20 years. He has worked in both Training and Operations management roles and led numerous internal projects. He headed New Hire Initial Training, led creation of the Captain Development Curriculum and designed and implemented Operational Efficiency training for pilots and dispatchers.

Capt. Brunjes is an Airline Transport rated, active general aviation pilot and owner with over 25,000 incident- and accident-free hours. He holds CFI, CFII, MEI (gold seal) and all ground instructor ratings. He is type rated on the B727, B747, B757, B767, B777, 787, A319/320 and C525 (single pilot) and is a commercial helicopter pilot and instructor. He is a FAA Designated Pilot Examiner conducting Part 61 and Part 141 Practical Tests.

As a Captain in the U.S. Air Force Reserves, Capt. Brunjes was a C141 Aircraft Commander for the 335th Military Airlift Squadron at McGuire AFB flying worldwide DOD missions, including a 9-month period of combat activation to support Operation Desert Storm. He has over 2,500 hours of Air Force flight experience.

Capt. Brunjes holds a bachelor’s degree in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering from Princeton University and an MBA from the Kellogg Graduate School of Management at Northwestern University where he concentrated in Accounting, Finance, Marketing and Transportation.

Capt. Brunjes is married with three children, two of whom are licensed pilots. He enjoys outdoor and motor sports and is passionate about aviation and the business of aviation!

Jay Singh

Deputy Content Manager & Lead Journalist, North America, Simple Flying

Evert de Boer

Managing Director, On Point Loyalty

Evert de Boer has researched and worked in airline loyalty strategy since 2000. He has collaborated with more than 35 airlines globally on airline loyalty programs in advisory roles.

He has published numerous articles and white papers on the subject.

In his current role at On Point Loyalty, he leads a global team of loyalty and finance experts supporting clients in designing and executing their airline loyalty strategies.

Evert de Boer is the author of 'Strategy in Airline Loyalty: Frequent Flyer Programmes' which was published by Palgrave Macmillan in 2018.

Paula Thomas

Podcast Creator & Show Host, Let's Talk Loyalty

With over twenty-five years blue-chip marketing experience, Paula is now an award-winning podcaster, hosting interviews and articles for her show “Let’s Talk Loyalty”, the world’s first podcast for loyalty marketing professionals.

As an expert loyalty practitioner, her clients have included Telefonica O2 Priority, Electric Ireland and Allied Irish Bank as well as Avios – the global points currency for some of the world’s top airlines.

She is a former judge for the “Loyalty Magazine Awards”, a founding member of the Customer Strategy Network of loyalty practitioners, and the author of the book “Driving Loyalty in Convenience Retail”.

She holds a Masters in Business from Ireland’s top University and is a “Certified Loyalty Marketing Professional”.

Vinod Kannan

Chief Commercial Officer, Vistara

Vinod Kannan joined Vistara in June 2019. In his role, he is responsible for developing, executing and sustaining Vistara’s corporate strategy and ensuring the airline’s commercial success. He spearheads a wide portfolio of Vistara’s strategic and commercial functions, including but not limited to pricing and revenue management, network planning, sales & distribution, partnerships & alliances, product development, in-flight services, marketing, branding and customer experience.

With over 19 years of experience working with Singapore Airlines (SIA), he brings with him deep knowledge of the aviation industry across international markets. He joined the group in 2001 and has held many senior positions in airline’s head office in Singapore as well as overseas.

Prior to joining Vistara, he served as the Chief Commercial Officer of Scoot, SIA's low-cost subsidiary in Singapore, where he was instrumental in launching long-haul operations, mainly to cities in Europe. He has also served SIA as Vice President Network Planning and as Singapore Airlines’ General Manager for Indonesia. Mr. Kannan has spearheaded Singapore Airlines’ Marketing and Sales departments as well in the Middle East and Italy.

He holds a Masters degree in Business Administration from the National University of Singapore (NUS) and University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). In his free time, he enjoys reading and playing squash or tennis.

Pranjal Pande

Lead Journalist - India, Simple Flying

James Pearson

Routes Analyst, Simple Flying

James lives and breathes routes. Educated in Air Transport Management at Loughborough and Cranfield, James was Market Opportunity Analyst at London Luton Airport and Chief Analyst at anna.aero. Now writing data-driven analysis for Simple Flying. Based near London, UK.

Ben Griffin

VP Mobility, OneWeb

Ben has over 20 years’ experience in IFC, with notable contributions to companies such as ARINC, AeroMobile, Inmarsat and currently OneWeb. Ben’s career in IFC has developed alongside the fast-paced change from narrow band to true broadband connectivity and now at OneWeb is responsible for delivering fibre-like connectivity solutions to aviation customers in all parts of the aircraft, passengers and crew alike. Ben brings a wealth of experience from the IFC service provision perspective, including significant satellite provider insight spanning both GEO and LEO technologies. Now based in the UK, Ben has also enjoyed 13 years in the Middle East giving him a broad experience of business in MEA and APAC regions.

Maryann Simson

Independent Aviation Journalist and Consultant

Maryann Simson is an aviation journalist and independent communications consultant based in London England. Originally from Ontario, Canada, Maryann has a Journalism Diploma from the Humber College School of Media and Technology where she majored in Broadcast Journalism. She entered the world of aviation trade media in 2008 and has worked in senior editor and director roles for some of the industry’s favourite news sources, including PAX International Magazine, Runway Girl Network, and most recently APEX media, where she led a talented international team delivering news and analysis across all forms of media to a large global audience. During her career, Maryann has contributed to countless other aviation titles and has become a popular moderator and presenter, hosting numerous conferences, events and videos.

Rishi Jain

Consultant, Jain Aviation Consultants

Rishi Jain is a UK-based independent consultant (Jain Aviation Consultants) and expert on Indian aviation. He has been in and around the Indian sector for over 20 years. He has worked with Air India and understands the carrier incredibly well, including the problems that will arise following privatization. His Twitter handle is @RJainaviation.

Devesh Agarwal

Aviation Expert

An electronics and automotive product management, marketing and branding expert, he was awarded a silver medal at the Lockheed Martin innovation competition 2010. He was awarded the Lockheed Martin 2008 India Innovation silver medal. His latest product is the PoweredEthernet™ line of Power Over Ethernet products which began with the world’s first high power P.o.E. splitter and which has been used on all seven continents, including Antarctica.

He is a Past President of the Bangalore Chamber of Industry and Commerce.

A frequent flier with over 1,500 flights and 4 million miles under his belt, he started Bangalore Aviation, an aviation-oriented website that has grown to be ranked in the top 15 global aviation sites. He is widely considered an irreverent expert on Indian aviation, being rated sixth on Mashable's global list of aviation journalists on Twitter. He has also contributed to leading global publications and sites like Aviation Week, Conde Nast Traveller India, The Economic Times, The Mint, Firstoost and Moneycontrol. He remains a frequent flier and shares the good, the bad, and the ugly about the Indian aviation industry without fear or favour.

He is also a passionate biker. He has been riding super-bikes since 1984. Currently owns a Harley Davidson and a BMW motorcycle and regularly tours around India. He recently completed a 15 day trip across the Himalayas and in November 2020 rode 11,500 kilometres from Kanyakumari to Kashmir back to Kanyakumari in an effort to raise awareness about safe travelling during the Covid pandemic.

A noted foodie and wine enthusiast. Authored a book titled “Wines Demystified”. Founder of The Wine Connoisseurs, and The Rotarians Wine Fellowship of India. An Officier in The Chaîne des Rôtisseurs, the oldest and largest gastronomic society in the world.

Member of the Rotary Club of Bangalore, and major donor to The Rotary Foundation.

James Pearson

Routes Analyst, Simple Flying

James lives and breathes routes. Educated in Air Transport Management at Loughborough and Cranfield, James was Market Opportunity Analyst at London Luton Airport and Chief Analyst at anna.aero. Now writing data-driven analysis for Simple Flying. Based near London, UK.

Pranjal Pande

Lead Journalist - India, Simple Flying

Gaurav Joshi

Journalist, Simple Flying

Becca Rowland

Partner, AviaDev Consult, powered by MIDAS aviation

Rebecca is a partner at MIDAS Aviation, providing market intelligence, data and strategic advice to the industry. She brings considerable and deep understanding of what drives demand for air travel to the projects she undertakes and has worked on hundreds of projects for clients involving market analysis, air service development and traffic forecasting.

Formerly head of IATA’s forecasting and consultancy team, Rebecca has also been instrumental in the development of a number of industry performance benchmarking tools in the areas of traveller views of airports, on-time performance and connectivity. She has also worked for Vancouver Airport in their business development team and before that for two major US carriers in their business planning areas.

With an MBA in Marketing, Rebecca also works with clients to assist the marketing of aviation products and services, contributing from the development of value propositions through to the regular creation of marketing content. She provides commentary on current developments in the aviation sector and has written numerous white papers and articles for OAG on industry developments, including The Pursuit of Punctuality, From Punctuality to Loyalty, Great Expectations – Lifting the Lid on OTP, The Fight for Global Markets and The Big Five – Disruptive Strategies for African Aviation. She has also written about African connectivity and the state of visa openness in Africa for AviaDev.

Andreas Spaeth

Independent Aviation Journalist

Andreas Spaeth has been covering the airline industry as an aviation journalist and author since the late 1980s and travels the world visiting airlines, airports and aircraft manufacturers. He works for a wide spectrum of general and aviation media in Germany, Switzerland, the UK and Australia and often appears on TV and radio as an expert. He has recently published two major books, one on Supersonic Travel and another about the Airbus A380.

Tom Boon

Content Manager, Simple Flying

Clarissa Sebastian

Managing Director, Premium Customer Experience, American Airlines

Clarissa Sebastian leads the Premium Customer Experience and Onboard Products team as Managing Director, where she is responsible for American’s lounge and inflight product development, including entertainment and connectivity.

Previously, Clarissa served as director for American’s Small and Medium Business Products, where she was responsible for 3.5B in corporate and agency business, along with lead generation strategy for all B2B customer segments. Clarissa also held several roles in Alliances & Partnerships, where she led American’s interests in the Pacific Joint Business with Japan Airlines, and in the Qantas American Joint Business, along with other partnerships in Europe, India and the Middle East.

In her 12 years at American, Clarissa held poditions in Corporate Purchasing, Cargo and Corporate Planning, where she led the budget with Boeing and collaborated with teams across American on the configuration of the 777-300 aircraft.

Clarissa holds an International Relations degree from St. Edwards University in Austin, and an MBA in Supply Chain Management from Texas Christian University. She lives in Colleyville with her husband Keith and two daughters.

Jay Singh

Deputy Content Manager & Lead Journalist, North America, Simple Flying

Nigel Smith

Managing Director and Head of Design, SWS Certification Services

Christopher Wood MBE

Aviation Accessibility Consultant, Flying Disabled

Chris is a campaigner and lobbyist in aviation and disability, he is also an Aviation Accessibility Consultant. Additionally, he is a member of the UK Civil Aviation Authorities ‘Access to Air Travel’ advisory group and also the Heathrow Access Advisory Group. In the past Chris has sat on boards for the FA and the Consumer Credit Trade Association.

As well as a desire to create and improve the whole air access journey, Chris has also set his sights on bringing wheelchair air travel in line with land and sea. His goal is to establish the solution “to enable a wheelchair user to stay in their chair whilst on a flight” – he is now one third of the Air4Alll consortium that has designed the perfect answer without airlines losing any pax places – there can be no more excuses.

His two children now in their twenties are keen to travel, he does not want the fact that they are both in wheelchairs to hinder their aspirations in both work and of course pleasure. A common yearning to everyone who uses a wheelchair.

Chris is working alongside the UK government and was instrumental in getting better accessibility in air travel on the governments Aviation 2050 strategy, however he has no desire to wait that long and is starting to initiate solutions straight away. Chris received an investiture in 2021 in Her Majesty the Queens Birthday Honour’s list with an MBE, this was for his work in Accessible Aviation.

Joanna Bailey

Editor, Simple Flying

Joanna has worked in publishing for more than a decade and is fast becoming a go-to source for commercial aviation analysis. Providing commentary for outlets including the BBC, CNBC, and others, she works closely with IATA, AviaDev and various airlines and suppliers to get the inside track on the global marketplace.

Tom Boon

Content Manager, Simple Flying

Joanna Bailey

Editor, Simple Flying

Joanna has worked in publishing for more than a decade and is fast becoming a go-to source for commercial aviation analysis. Providing commentary for outlets including the BBC, CNBC, and others, she works closely with IATA, AviaDev and various airlines and suppliers to get the inside track on the global marketplace.

Jon Howell

CEO & Founder, AviaDev

Jon has worked within the African and European aviation events industries since 2012. Jon joined Bench Events in 2015 and created AviaDev, a content platform and annual route planning conference for Africa. It is now established as the largest event of its kind on the continent having been held in Kigali 2016 and 2017 and then Cape Town in 2018 and 2019 with a future edition planned for Madagascar.

Additionally, Jon established AviaDev Insight Africa, the only podcast dedicated to African aviation in 2018. This boasts an audience in over 160 countries globally and over 50,000 listeners.

Jon became a key person of influence during the coronavirus pandemic, by delivering content and insight using digital means, including delivering Africa’s first virtual event for Aviation, Tourism and Hospitality, Africa Tomorrow in July 2020.

Jon is passionate about empowering the next generation of aviators. He co-founded Aviators Africa Academy in 2018, which has delivered outreach events across the continent. He was also appointed a Global Ambassador for Gorilla Conservation for his fundraising efforts which include climbing the three largest mountains in the UK in a single weekend wearing a gorilla suit.

Rodger Foster

Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director, Airlink

• Graduated from the University of the Witwatersrand (WITS) in 1978 with a BSc in Building and Architecture

• First job was with Metro Cash & Carry as a project manager

• He became a founding partner in a civil engineering and construction company from 1982 – 1992, which branched out into aviation, trading light aircraft.

• That company created SA Airlink, which has gone on to be come the 2^nd largest airline in Africa in terms of the number of aircraft it operates and the largest independent Southern African airline (measured by flight movements).

• Rodger has been CEO and Managing Director of Airlink since its inception in 1992.

Airlink background:

• Airlink is a privately-owned regional airline serving a comprehensive network of smaller destinations throughout Southern Africa.

• It has been consistently and responsibly profitable since its inception 28 years ago.

• Since 2020, it has operated independently under its own unique 4Z flight code offering customers more freedom, more choices and more travel opportunities.

• Airlink has a fleet of more than 50 commercial jetliners. They are operated by 450 pilots and cabin crew (of whom more than 250 are women) and maintained by a team of 400 engineers, mechanics and technicians.

• In 2019 Airlink carried 2 million customers on more than 63 000 flights, on 55 routes to 39 destinations in nine African countries and St Helena Island.

• Airlink’s on time performance is consistently better than 95% and this is a clear indication of our determination and commitment to remain synonymous with customer centricity, punctuality, service excellence, and reliability. Airlink is the most on time South African airline for 2020 as measured by the Airports Company of South Africa.

• Airlink is a member of IATA - The International Air Transport Association and has been IOSA (IATA Operational Safety Audit program) accredited since 2006.

Airlink company highlights, milestones and achievements:

Pre 1992
Airlink's origins are rooted in three small airlines, Magnum Airlines, Border Air and City Air, which merged to form Link Airways in the '80s. Subsequently, Link Airways was liquidated in 1992. After Rodger Foster and Barrie Webb, the two founders, had successfully bid for the business, they named the newly acquired airline 'Airlink'.

When Airlink was first formed, no-one within the company could have imagined that the small, fledgling airline would one day grow into the largest independent regional airline in southern Africa, linking passengers to the smaller towns, cities and regional centres than any other local airline.

Airlink’s growth path includes the acquisition of some smaller competitors such as Air Midlands and Metavia. Back in 1992, when it officially commenced operating, the airline’s head count was a meagre 32. Today, Airlink’s staff complement is around 1,000 people. In 1992, only a motley fleet of twin-prop Metroliners and Chieftains was flying the Airlink colours, offering a total capacity of only 25,000 seats per year.

1995
In 1995 Airlink officially launched its new J41 aircraft fleet on 25 March at an August gathering of important guests including Queen Elizabeth II. Today, Airlink boasts a fleet exceeding 30 aircraft, including its flagship fleet of 10 four-engine British Aerospace Avro RJ85s, which accommodate 83 passengers each. The airline currently carries more than one million passengers annually by way of 35,000 flight missions. Airlink is proud to note that, despite fluctuations in the country’s economy, it has shown growth in every single year of its existence.

1997
In 1997 SA Airlink joined South African Airways and South African Express in a powerful strategic alliance which led to the establishment of the leading aviation network in Africa. SAA and its regional partner, Airlink continues their existing partnership. The long term plan for the relationship is to form an alliance, which will allow Airlink to grow in all markets. Airlink will have the opportunity to serve any route domestic and regional which is commercially viable to it.

Airlink's success over the past years is fully attributable to the commitment, dedication and enthusiasm of the Airlink staff, the travel trade, and Airlink's suppliers and customers, who have supported Airlink through some tough challenges over the years. "Airlink has been truly fortunate in having stakeholders of the highest calibre, from our support staff on the ground to our flight crews in the air, including our shareholders," says Foster. "In addition, on behalf of Airlink, I would like to offer my sincere thanks to the travel industry for their loyalty and support, and to our millions of valued customers, for helping Airlink grow continuously over the past 21 years to the solid robust airline it has become at our coming of age," concludes Foster.

Airlink has over many years relentlessly pursued an aggressive intra-SADC regional expansion programme, establishing a comprehensive network of strategically important destinations within South Africa, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Swaziland, Mozambique, Botswana, Madagascar and Lesotho. In all, Airlink services more than 30 destinations throughout southern Africa, with more routes in the pipeline.

1999
In 1999 Swaziland Airlink was formed as a joint venture company between the Swaziland Government and Airlink to take over operations, from Royal Swazi National Airways Corporation, as the national carrier of Swaziland. Swaziland Airlink, the pride of the kingdom, provides direct and convenient daily return scheduled jet flights from Manzini to Johannesburg. Swaziland Airlink offers seamless interline connections with Airlink, SAA and its partner flights around the world. Qualify for free travel by earning Voyager Miles through flying on Swaziland Airlink.

2000
On 3 April 2000, Airlink officially opens the Kruger Park Gateway Airport in Phalaborwa. Phalaborwa, the true gateway to both game and golf, is the central gate to the world's most famous nature reserve, the Kruger National Park. The airport is situated approx 2 km from the Phalaborwa Gate, providing easy access to the northern camps such as Letaba, Olifants, Mopani, Shingwedzi and Punda Maria as well as many famous private game lodges. Admire the Park by open 4x4 vehicle, or take a safari on the Olifants River amongst hippos, crocodiles and other wildlife. A bush walk offers a close encounter with the habitat of the Parks wildlife.

2006
In January 2006 something new took flight, Airlink - formerly SA Airlink - did not only change its name but corporate identity too, giving you the freedom of flying to the smaller and regional centres and cities throughout Southern Africa. To achieve this essential objective, our new corporate identity programme clearly represents the concept of flight, graphically emphasising the airlines corporate positioning statement, "Freedom of the African Sky". And clearly positions Airlink as being "Proudly South African", with our tail displaying the distinctive national colours of blue, red, green and gold. It also uniquely features the brightly coloured and popular "Sunbird" found flying throughout the African Continent.

Airlink new advertising campaign embraces, the dream of flight that has long captured our imaginations, as children we would extend our arms like wings and run about without a care in the world ... and that's exactly the message we want to communicate to our passengers - spread your wings and fly with Airlink.

Airlink successfully completed the IATA Operational Safety Audit (IOSA) and were placed on the IATA Register on 6 February 2008. So you're assured of the highest possible standard of service whenever and wherever you fly Airlink. The airline is continually setting benchmarks in operational safety and reliability through superior standards of professionalism, efficiency and a strong focus on customer service delivery.

2009
In October 2009 Airlink moves into their new head office based in Greenstone Hill Office Park, Modderfontein.

Airlink Cargo a division of SA Airlink (Pty) Ltd is a dedicated cargo ground handling company. It has three trading divisions: the domestic ground handling division which provides cargo services for South African Airlink; the international ground handling division providing services for three airlines; and the specialised clearing and forwarding division for their own airline’s spares shipments.

2011
In December 2011, the Airports Company SA (ACSA) presents four Feather Awards to Airlink in recognition of consistent service excellence at ACSA airports. ACSA presents six Feather Awards to Airlink in recognition of consistent service excellence at ACSA airports in December 2012.

2012
In June 2012, a 32.51% stake of the company changed hands in a landmark broad-based black economic empowerment transaction. The new investor is the Sishen Iron Ore Company Community Development Trust ('SIOC-cdt'), which made the acquisition through its investment arm, Sishen Iron Ore Company Community Development Trust Investment Holdings.

2013
11 June 2013, Airlink celebrates 21 years in the aviation industry. Today, Airlink has a turnover of more than two billion Rand, employs about 1,000 staff, and carries one million-plus customers annually.

2014
02 June 2014, Airlink launched the return of scheduled air services between Cape Town and Johannesburg to Skukuza Airport, this was momentous in the context of South African tourism as this has allowed all tourism stakeholders and tourists the ability to gain direct access to a variety of important and globally renowned wildlife destinations within the Kruger Park and nearby Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve, thereby providing a far more integrated and effective leisure travel product to the global market. The airport is managed by the Skukuza Airport Management Company, in conjunction with SANParks, in terms of a 10 year Public Private Partnership agreement.

2015
16 August 2015, Airlink becomes the first domestic airline (it’s still the only non-charter option for that route) to offer scheduled flights between Cape Town and the then recently refurbished Wonderboom Airport in Pretoria.

2016
Airlink signed an agreement with the government of Madagascar. Working with a partner there to amend air services licenses, establish Air Operating Certificates, and all the rest, and that service will be running in Madagascar as an extension of the Airlink business – hopefully from later this year onwards.

2017
11 June 2017, Airlink celebrates its 25th anniversary under the same leadership and the 50th anniversary of one of our roots Lowveld Air Services started in 1967. Today, Airlink has 46 aircraft, a turnover of more than three billion Rand, and employs approximately 1,350 staff.

In December 2017, the Airports Company SA (ACSA) presented Feather Awards to Airlink in recognition of Best Performing Regional Airline and Best Performing Domestic Airline.

2018
In December 2018, the Airports Company SA (ACSA) presented a Feather Award to Airlink in recognition of Best Performing Regional Airline.

2020

In June 2020 Airlink began operating on its own “4Z” flight code and ticketing designator after ending a long-standing franchise agreement with South African Airways. This marked Airlink’s return to being a completely independent carrier

In October 2020 Airlink and Qatar Airways announced they had signed an interline agreement and also launched its first scheduled services linking Johannesburg and Windhoek as well as Johannesburg with Maputo.

Please see the News pages on www.flyairlink.com for further background and company announcements dating back to February 2010.

Jon Howell

CEO & Founder, AviaDev

Jon has worked within the African and European aviation events industries since 2012. Jon joined Bench Events in 2015 and created AviaDev, a content platform and annual route planning conference for Africa. It is now established as the largest event of its kind on the continent having been held in Kigali 2016 and 2017 and then Cape Town in 2018 and 2019 with a future edition planned for Madagascar.

Additionally, Jon established AviaDev Insight Africa, the only podcast dedicated to African aviation in 2018. This boasts an audience in over 160 countries globally and over 50,000 listeners.

Jon became a key person of influence during the coronavirus pandemic, by delivering content and insight using digital means, including delivering Africa’s first virtual event for Aviation, Tourism and Hospitality, Africa Tomorrow in July 2020.

Jon is passionate about empowering the next generation of aviators. He co-founded Aviators Africa Academy in 2018, which has delivered outreach events across the continent. He was also appointed a Global Ambassador for Gorilla Conservation for his fundraising efforts which include climbing the three largest mountains in the UK in a single weekend wearing a gorilla suit.

Sean Mendis

Aviation Expert

Sean Mendis returned to Ghana in 2018 as Chief Operations Officer of Africa World Airlines, resuming a role he had previously held from 2010 to 2012 during the airline's startup.

From 2005 to 2010, Sean was part of the launch management team of Ghana International Airlines. In 2013, he moved to Somalia to manage Mogadishu's Aden Abdulle International Airport for SKA International Group under contract from the Somali Federal Government. Between 2014 and 2018, he helped launch multiple aviation business lines for SKA, including a jet-fuel terminal in the UAE, and a cargo airline based in Uganda.

Sean Mendis

Aviation Expert

Sean Mendis returned to Ghana in 2018 as Chief Operations Officer of Africa World Airlines, resuming a role he had previously held from 2010 to 2012 during the airline's startup.

From 2005 to 2010, Sean was part of the launch management team of Ghana International Airlines. In 2013, he moved to Somalia to manage Mogadishu's Aden Abdulle International Airport for SKA International Group under contract from the Somali Federal Government. Between 2014 and 2018, he helped launch multiple aviation business lines for SKA, including a jet-fuel terminal in the UAE, and a cargo airline based in Uganda.

James Pearson

Routes Analyst, Simple Flying

James lives and breathes routes. Educated in Air Transport Management at Loughborough and Cranfield, James was Market Opportunity Analyst at London Luton Airport and Chief Analyst at anna.aero. Now writing data-driven analysis for Simple Flying. Based near London, UK.

Tony Carnie

Environmental Journalist

Tony Carnie is an environmental journalist based in Durban, South Africa. He writes on a wide variety of global and national environmental issues, including aviation emissions, air pollution and climate change. After many years at Independent Newspapers, he switched to freelancing five years ago and now writes for the Daily Maverick, New Frame and other titles. He has won a CNN African Journalist of the Year award for an investigation into the links between childhood cancer and industrial air pollution. Tony has also attended IATA annual meetings in Beijing, Istanbul and Dublin.

Dr Ian Cruickshank

Taskforce Manager, United for Wildlife Transport

Dr Ian Cruickshank is the United for Wildlife Transport Taskforce manager. Ian has over 20 years’ experience in the aviation industry with over 10 years as an environmental affairs specialist with highlights that include the only sustainable aviation fuelled flights in Africa.

Linden Birns

Owner/MD, Plane Talking

Linden Birns is the founder and managing director of Plane Talking, a public relations and communications consultancy based in South Africa, that specialises in the air transport and aerospace sectors.

He is also a founding partner in BHK Crisis Communications, a global practice, a Senior Associate at GoCrisis and is a former Associate Director at Kenyon International, the disaster and emergency management firms.

Over the past 29 years, Linden has worked with leading airlines, commercial and military aircraft manufacturers, aerospace research and technology development bodies, industry associations, airports as various other entities in sub-Sahara Africa, Europe, the UK, Scandinavia, UAE, USA, China, Canada and Thailand.

Prior to this, Linden was an award-winning newspaper and magazine journalist, news photographer, radio and TV broadcaster and producer in South Africa, Namibia and the UK.

He documented South Africa’s turbulent transition to democracy for Business Day, the South African daily newspaper, where he covered politics, security and defence. His reports and images also appeared in The Guardian (UK), The Los Angeles Times (USA), Newsweek. Linden began reporting on aviation and air transport for the newspaper in 1991 which led him to become a correspondent for Flight International and World Airnews and a regular contributor to various other media.

During the 1990s, Linden wrote and co-published the AirReport series of best-seller yearbooks on aviation in South Africa and co-produced an accompanying television series.

Linden holds a Bachelor of Journalism & Media Studies from Rhodes University, South Africa (1985).

In his spare time, he is a private pilot and a musician.

Katya Akulinicheva

CFO, ZeroAvia

Linnea Ahlgren

Lead Sustainability Journalist, Simple Flying

Sophie Dekkers

CCO, easyjet

Sophie joined easyJet in 2007 and prior to joining the Airline Management Board as Chief Commercial Officer, she held the role of Customer Director. Prior to this she was Director of Scheduling for the airline, implementing systems and process improvements. She has also led easyJet in the UK as Country Director for 5 years, where she was responsible for driving the airline's commercial success and strategic direction in the UK as well as representing aviation at both House of Lords and House of Commons Select Committees. Previous roles in the airline include Head of Change Management and Customer Insight, with a background in customer insight working with a range of brands from Jaguar Land Rover to Mars, Unilever and Vodafone. Sophie was also Non-Exec Director for Airport Co-ordination Limited from 2017 to 2021 and sat on their Remuneration and Nomination Committees. Sophie is easyJet’s business lead on Diversity & Inclusion, a qualified MindGym coach, business mentor, and a founding member of easyJet’s Women’s Network.

Tom Boon

Content Manager, Simple Flying

Andrew Geer

Chief Engineer and Head of Programme - UltraFan, Rolls-Royce

Andy has worked for Rolls-Royce since 1987 in a variety of Engineering-focussed roles. After early years of work on FADEC design and development, Andy moved to support the experimental and certification activity for Trent 700 and Trent 800 engine types – culminating in participation in the 777 Flight Test campaign as part of the Seattle-based Rolls-Royce team. Having subsequently spent a year or so based in Singapore as local Engineering support for the introduction of the Rolls-powered 777-200 to this strategic new customer, Andy took up the first of a number of Engineering leadership roles in the UK, culminating in appointment as Chief Engineer for the fleet of Rolls-Royce equipment on Boeing platforms (RB211-535, 524 and Trent 800 engine types).

At the formal launch of the Trent 1000 on the Boeing 787 Dreamliner, Andy became Chief Engineer for that new engine NPI programme – taking the engine from the exit of the Stage 1 concept design process right through to just prior to EIS.

Andy joined the Installations Supply Chain Unit as leader of their global engineering team for a 2 year period, enacting a transformation of the team in support of a wider Rolls-Royce re-organisation to focus on sub-system design capability – Andy ultimately leading Installations and Power Transmissions sub-system groups.

From late 2013, Andy built and led the team enacting Rolls-Royce Civil Technology Demonstrator programmes at a whole engine level. This specifically included execution of Advance3, a fast-moving whole engine Demonstrator programme focussed on gas turbine core technology risk mitigation. Andy’s role encompasses both Chief Engineer and Head of Programme accountabilities, driving both technology risk mitigation and evolving improved means of programme delivery in support of future engine options.

Since September 2017 Andy’s focus has been on the execution of the UltraFan® technology demonstrator programme as the Chief Engineer and Head of Programme.

Martin Gauss

President and CEO, airBaltic

Martin Gauss is the CEO and Chairman of the Executive Board of airBaltic since November 2011. Under his leadership, airBaltic has successfully carried out a robust turnaround plan and achieved a strong growth path. With the early decision of ordering up to 80 Airbus A220, Gauss has built a foundation for the airline’s global success story. Martin Gauss is an experienced CEO who has worked in the aviation industry in different countries for nearly 30 years. He still holds a Captain's license on Airbus A220.

Alina Roscina

SVP Human Resources, airBaltic

Alina Roscina is SVP Human Resources at airBaltic and has been working at the company for 10 years. She has a wide background in compensation and benefits, as well as human resources analytics area. Currently, she is taking care of the execution of the HR strategy in this international, dynamic, and diverse company.

Linnea Ahlgren

Lead Sustainability Journalist, Simple Flying

Bjørn Tore Larsen

CEO, Norse Atlantic Airways

Bjørn Tore Larsen is the founder, CEO and the major shareholder of Norse Atlantic Airways, Bjørn Tore has been interested in and passionate about aviation for as long as he can remember. He holds several type ratings, including the Boeing 747.

Bjørn Tore has extensive international shipping experience, which includes founding and controlling OSM Maritime Group in 1989, a ship owning company headquartered in Norway with more than 16,000 employees internationally and ADS Maritime Holding, a company listed on the Euronext Growth Exchange in Oslo. He is the majority shareholder of OSM Flight Academy, which has pilot schools in the U.S., Norway and Sweden. He is also the majority shareholder of OSM Airtech, which offers aircraft maintenance services in Norway and Sweden.

Bjørn Tore is a self-made entrepreneur who spent a year at sea when he was 16. Soon after returning home to go to high school, he decided to pursue his dream of becoming a businessman, and at the age of 18 acquired a travel agency near his now hometown of Arendal, Norway. Three years later he founded OSM Maritime, which is now among the largest ship management companies in the world.

Birgir Jonsson

CEO, PLAY

Birgir has extensive experience in international management and operations. He was Ossur's Regional Director in Asia, based in Hong Kong, CEO of Iceland Express and later Deputy CEO of WOW air. He lived and worked in Romania, Bulgaria and Hungary, where he was CEO of Infopress Group, one of the largest printing companies in Eastern Europe. He was CEO of Iceland Post and has also been involved in many projects in the field of restructuring and transformation across a diverse range of industries.

Birgir holds an MBA from the University of Westminster in London and a BA (Hons) from the University of the Arts London.

Juraj Toth

Managing Director, AviaDev Europe

Juraj is a passionate aviation marketer who believes flying is a force of good. He worked for Košice Airport, Slovakia for 7 years. He built the marketing department from scratch and was responsible for creating and implementing marketing strategies that totally repositioned the airport. Juraj played a leading role within the airport team focused on air service development that managed to bring several new airlines to Košice. Since June 2018 he´s been enjoying his new role with AviaDev. In May 2019 he was appointed as Managing Director for AviaDev Europe.

Jonathan Wood

Vice President - Renewable Aviation, Neste

Jonathan leads Neste’s Renewable Aviation business for the Europe, MEA and Aspac regions. Jonathan is responsible for all activities relating to the sale and supply of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and related services, investments and business development. The role also covers engagement with government authorities and policy makers on regulatory matters, to help accelerate the use of SAF and support the aviation industry on its path to reduce emissions.

Prior to joining Neste, Jonathan has extensive experience in the energy industry with bp, in senior leadership positions in the Downstream marketing businesses, responsible for commercial, business development, M&A, strategy, marketing and operations activities. The last 10 years Jonathan has focused on the aviation fuel business.

Jonathan graduated in Economics from London University, and completed an Executive MBA programme at Harvard Business School.

Sumit Singh

Deputy Editor, Simple Flying

Arjan Meijer

President and CEO, Embraer Commercial Aviation

Arjan is President & Chief Executive Officer of Embraer Commercial Aviation and EVP at Embraer S.A.

Arjan joined Embraer in April 2016 as Vice President of Commercial Aviation for Europe, Middle East, Russia and Central Asia. Appointed Chief Commercial Officer of Embraer Commercial Aviation in January 2017, based in Amsterdam, Arjan oversaw worldwide sales, marketing, customer support and primary customer relationships. In June 2020 Arjan was appointed President & CEO of Embraer Commercial Aviation and, as an EVP, joined the management board of Embraer S.A.

Prior to April 2016, Arjan spent 15 years at KLM on the engineering, technical services and fleet development aspects of the company. His last role was Managing Director of KLM UK Engineering Limited, a wholly-owned AFI KLM E&M subsidiary specializing in maintenance solutions for regional and narrow-body aircraft fleets.

Arjan has a degree in Aerospace Engineering from Delft University of Technology and also holds an Executive MBA (International Master’s in Management) from Purdue University.

Joanna Bailey

Editor, Simple Flying

Joanna has worked in publishing for more than a decade and is fast becoming a go-to source for commercial aviation analysis. Providing commentary for outlets including the BBC, CNBC, and others, she works closely with IATA, AviaDev and various airlines and suppliers to get the inside track on the global marketplace.

Felix Antelo

President and CEO, Viva Air

Felix Antelo is Business Administrator of the Pontificia Universidad Católica of Argentina and has more than 20 years of experience in the aviation industry, living and working in the most important countries of Latin America. He currently serves as President and CEO of Viva Group, the leading group of ultra-low cost airlines in the region, with operations in Colombia and Peru.

He previously served as CEO of LATAM Airlines Peru, from 2014 to 2018. In addition, he held different positions in LAN/LATAM as Commercial Director in Ecuador, Sales Director and Commercial Director in Argentina, and Commercial Vice President in Chile and Brazil.

Félix was Director of AMCHAM Peru (American Chamber of Commerce of Peru), and has been chosen as one of the most influential business leaders in recent years.

At this moment, Antelo is working for the internationalization process of Viva, planning to open 15 new international routes in three years, and making Medellín its HUB - Connections Center for the region, one of the most important projects for 2021. In addition, he led the change of image of the Viva brand to invite all its travelers to 'fly more'.

Viva has a solid network of national and international routes, flying to 12 destinations within Colombia, 7 domestic destinations in Peru and 5 international destinations such as Lima, Miami, Orlando, Mexico City and Cancun. With the purchase of new Airbus 320 aircraft, which began arriving in 2019, Grupo Viva plans to expand its model throughout the region in the following years.

Daniel Martinez Garbuno

Lead Journalist - Latin America, Simple Flying

José Ricardo Botelho

Executive Director and CEO, Latin American & Caribbean Air Transport Association

José Ricardo Botelho is a Lawyer from the Catholic University of Salvador, Brazil with experience in civil aviation and public service.

Prior to joining ALTA, José Ricardo served for 4 years as President of the Brazilian National Civil Aviation Agency (ANAC) and, for about 2 and a half years, he served as Brazil's Alternate Diplomatic Delegate to ICAO, actively participating in the amendments to the text of the Tokyo Convention in the work relevant to Brazil's entry in ICAO’s Public Key Directory (PKD) and in the systematization of API (Advanced Passenger Information), besides having worked on the rules against acts of unlawful interference (AVSEC) for civil aviation.

José Ricardo holds a postgraduate degree in Criminal Sciences from Jorge Amado University and a postgraduate degree in Public Security Management from the National Police Academy, both from Brazil.

Daniel Martinez Garbuno

Lead Journalist - Latin America, Simple Flying

Rob McKinney

CEO, Northern Pacific Airways

Rob McKinney is chief executive officer of FLOAT Alaska LLC and its subsidiaries--Northern Pacific Airways and Ravn Alaska, where he leads a team of 400 employees and manages a growing fleet of aircraft that fly to destinations statewide. In addition to being a Learjet captain, Rob has over thirty years of airline experience piloting commercial aircraft and managing flight operations. In 2002, as VP and director of operations at Pacific Wings, a Hawaiian-based commuter airline, Rob oversaw exponential customer growth which tripled passenger traffic during his three-year tenure. He thereafter joined Mokulele Airlines in Hawaii as chief operating officer, where he successfully converted the company from a small air-touring service, into a fully scheduled commuter airline. Rob returned stateside in 2007 to join SeaPort Airlines, a small startup based in Portland, Oregon. As chief operations officer, and later chief executive officer at SeaPort, Rob established a commuter shuttle service between Portland and Seattle. In 2018, Rob co-founded FLOAT (Fly Over All Traffic) Shuttle Inc., a commuter and corporate transportation service in southern California. In April 2020, Rob and the FLOAT Shuttle Inc. team orchestrated the acquisition of Ravn Air Group. Rob received his Bachelor of Science in Technology from Purdue University and has an MBA from Ellis College/NYIT. He hails from the state of Indiana.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/roblmckinney/

Sumit Singh

Deputy Editor, Simple Flying

Scott Hamilton

Managing Editor, Leeham News and Analysis

Scott Hamilton is the managing editor of Leeham News and Analysis. Having spent more than three decades in the aviation news industry, he was named Best Aerospace Journalist of the Year in 2009 in the Regional Airline Category and served on the Board of Directors for Pacific Northwest Aerospace Alliance from 2010 to 2013.

Before creating LNA, Hamilton co-founded Linkraven Ltd. in 1989. Linkraven published the internationally distributed Commercial Aviation Report and Commercial Aviation Value Report; and organized conferences in Asia, Europe and the Americas under the Commercial Aviation Events banner. During the 10 years Hamilton and his partner owned and operated Linkraven, their publications and events became internationally recognized for their breaking news reporting and high-quality conferences. The influential publications regularly beat larger and more established magazines and newspapers with news and analysis about the airline industry.

Hamilton is known for his straight-shooting, call-it-like-it-is take on news and events and applies his decades of industry experience to offer perspective and analysis. Broadcast and print media frequently call him for expert analysis about the issues of the day. LNA regularly breaks international news that wire services and other media pick up.

As a regular speaker and moderator at aviation conferences and corporate events, Hamilton has recently teamed up with Airfinance Journal to produce another series of conferences that bring his stimulating, conversational and interactive format back to the industry.

Tom Boon

Content Manager, Simple Flying

Brett Catlin

Vice President - Networks and Alliances, Alaska Airlines

Jay Singh

Deputy Content Manager & Lead Journalist, North America, Simple Flying

Shashank Nigam

Founder and CEO, Simpliflying

Shashank is antifragile - He thrives in disorder and chaos. Since the beginning of COVID-19, he has led efforts to help top aviation executives rebuild trust in travel. Being the first to release a 58-touchpoint map in March 2020 called the "Rise of Sanitised Travel" to launching APEX Health Safety powered by SimpliFlying ratings, He has led from the front. SimpliFlying's Fit2Fly product allows airlines to own the customer journey by offering COVID-testing and wellness services within the booking path.

Since 2008, when he started SimpliFlying, he has always had an eye toward the future. Then, airlines needed to be on social media to build trust. Today, they need to prioritise well being ahead of on-time performance. Having worked directly with over 100 airlines, airports and OEMs (like Boeing, Airbus, P&W), Shashank has built an eye for helping leaders stay ahead of the competition. His book, SOAR, charts the journey of some of the best airline brands in the world on delighting customers and inspiring employees.

His passionate and honest perspectives on aviation strategy have found their way to over 100 leading media outlets, including the Harvard Business Review, BBC, CNBC, Reuters and Bloomberg, and into leading publications such as The Wall Street Journal and the New York Times. He writes a dedicated monthly column in Flight's Airline Business, challenging the typical assumptions about aviation.

Shashank studied Information Systems Management and Business Management at Singapore Management University and Carnegie Mellon University. Born in India, raised in Singapore, he now lives with his wife and two young daughters in Whistler, BC. Follow him on Linkedin or get his book at www.simplisoar.com or Amazon.

*Antifragile is a term coined by Nassim Nicholas Taleb of the Black Swan fame.

Juraj Toth

Managing Director, AviaDev Europe

Juraj is a passionate aviation marketer who believes flying is a force of good. He worked for Košice Airport, Slovakia for 7 years. He built the marketing department from scratch and was responsible for creating and implementing marketing strategies that totally repositioned the airport. Juraj played a leading role within the airport team focused on air service development that managed to bring several new airlines to Košice. Since June 2018 he´s been enjoying his new role with AviaDev. In May 2019 he was appointed as Managing Director for AviaDev Europe.

David Neeleman

Founder, CEO & Chairman of the Board, Breeze Airways; Founder of JetBlue and Azul

David Neeleman is that rarest of entrepreneurs, a man who has created and launched a multitude of successful, independent airlines, including the USA’s Breeze Airways, JetBlue and Morris Air (sold to Southwest), Canada’s WestJet and Brazil’s Azul.

David was born in Brazil while his father was Reuter’s São Paulo Bureau Chief. His family moved to Utah while he was still a child. His career began in 1984 when he co-founded a low-fare carrier called Morris Air with June Morris, the owner of Salt Lake City-based travel agency Morris Travel. As President of Morris Air, David implemented the industry’s first electronic ticketing system and pioneered a home reservation system where calls are handled by reservationists working from their homes.

Following the sale of Morris Air and a short period with Southwest Airlines, David took the electronic ticketing system that he had initiated at Morris Air and developed it to become Open Skies, the world’s simplest airline reservation system. David sold Open Skies to Hewlett Packard in 1999. Also during this period, David acted as a consultant to WestJet Airlines, the successful Canadian low-fare start-up airline.

David then founded JetBlue Airways in New York and spent a decade as Chief Executive Officer (1998 to 2007) and Chairman (2002 to 2008). An amazing success by any measure, JetBlue was an instant hit with travelers and was the first airline to earn $100 million annually within five years, thus becoming a “major” airline fastest. JetBlue has won countless awards and accolades including Top Low Cost Airline for Customer Satisfaction by J.D. Power and Associates and Best Airline by Consumer Reports. It won Conde Nast Traveler’s Readers Choice Awards for Best U.S. Airline for seven consecutive years.

After JetBlue, it was Brazil’s turn to experience David’s magic in bringing new planes and low fares to many markets that had never seen nonstop service.

Azul, launched in 2008, now serves more than 100 destinations with an operating fleet of more than 140 aircraft, including Brazilian-built Embraer E-190 and E-195 jets, and ATR-72s. Just as JetBlue in the US before it, Azul is the first airline in Latin America to offer LiveTV inflight TV programming via satellite.

David now turns his attention back to the US domestic airline industry with his new airline Breeze Airways. Breeze began commercial service on May 27 and now operates 39 routes in 16 cities from San Antonio, TX, to Providence, RI. David plans to re-invent low cost travel with nonstop service between secondary and tertiary markets across the USA.

Breeze currently operates 13 Embraer aircraft and has orders for 60 new Airbus A220 aircraft which start delivery in October and will be delivered one per month for the next five years.

Joanna Bailey

Editor, Simple Flying

Joanna has worked in publishing for more than a decade and is fast becoming a go-to source for commercial aviation analysis. Providing commentary for outlets including the BBC, CNBC, and others, she works closely with IATA, AviaDev and various airlines and suppliers to get the inside track on the global marketplace.

Tom Boon

Content Manager, Simple Flying