Vertical Aerospace Appoints Dómhnal Slattery as New Chairman to Drive eVTOL Innovations
- Vertical Aerospace appoints Dómhnal Slattery as new Chairman, bringing extensive aviation experience to the role.
- The company aims to enhance eVTOL technology and achieve its Flightpath 2030 objectives under Slattery's leadership.
- Vertical Aerospace has successfully conducted piloted thrustborne flight, marking a significant milestone in its operational capabilities.
Vertical Aerospace Strengthens Leadership with New Chairman Appointment
Vertical Aerospace, a leader in the electric aviation sector, announces the appointment of Dómhnal Slattery as the new Chairman of its Board of Directors, effective immediately. Slattery, who previously held this position from January 2022 to August 2023, brings a wealth of experience spanning over three decades in the aviation industry. He is the founder of Avolon and SMBC Aviation, both of which rank among the largest aircraft leasing companies worldwide. With his ventures collectively raising and deploying over $75 billion in capital, Slattery's expertise positions him as a key figure in furthering Vertical's mission to lead the commercialization of zero-emissions air travel.
Under Slattery's leadership, Vertical Aerospace aims to build on its recent achievements, including a strategic $180 million boost to its balance sheet, which features $50 million in new committed funding. These financial advancements support the company's ambitious plans to enhance its electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft technology. Vertical Aerospace has also marked a significant milestone in its operational capabilities, becoming the second company globally to successfully conduct piloted thrustborne flight with a full-scale vectored thrust eVTOL aircraft. This technological progress underscores Vertical's commitment to establishing itself as a frontrunner in the burgeoning eVTOL market.
The timing of Slattery's return is particularly pivotal as Vertical Aerospace sets its sights on becoming the leading eVTOL company by 2030. Both Slattery and CEO Stuart Simpson express optimism regarding the company's trajectory, with Simpson emphasizing Slattery's qualifications to navigate the challenges ahead and achieve the company's Flightpath 2030 objectives. Slattery's extensive background in capital markets and aviation will undoubtedly play a crucial role in guiding Vertical Aerospace through a transformative period for the industry, characterized by a shift towards sustainable air travel.
In addition to his new role, Slattery has received numerous accolades for his contributions to the aviation field, including the 2023 ISTAT Award and the "Outstanding Contribution to the Aviation Industry" award in 2016. Outgoing Chairman Stephen Welch remains on the Board as a non-executive director, providing continuity during this leadership transition.
Vertical Aerospace continues to position itself at the forefront of the electric aviation movement, with Slattery's leadership expected to catalyze further advancements in technology and market readiness. As the company moves forward, it remains committed to innovating sustainable air travel solutions that align with global environmental goals.