Hybrid Air Vehicles (HAV), the innovative company behind the revolutionary Airlander aircraft, has announced a significant addition to its advisory board: Tony Anderson, the former Marketing Director of easyJet. Known for his pivotal role in easyJet’s rise as a major player in European aviation, Tony Anderson’s appointment is a strategic move that underscores HAV’s commitment to transforming the aviation industry.
A Proven Track Record
Tony Anderson joined easyJet as its third employee, just six months before the airline’s first flight. His contributions were instrumental in establishing easyJet as a leading low-cost airline in Europe. Working closely with the airline’s founder, Anderson’s marketing prowess helped create one of the most recognizable travel brands in the world.
After his success at easyJet, Anderson served as the Marketing Director of easyGroup, playing a crucial role in launching various businesses under the easy brand. Since 2017, he has worked as a consultant and advisor to easyGroup and easyJet’s founder, Sir Stelios Haji-Ioannou, further solidifying his reputation as a marketing and business development expert.
A Year of Milestones
Tony Anderson’s arrival at HAV comes at a time of significant achievements for the company. Over the past year, HAV has made remarkable progress in the development of the Airlander 10. One of the key milestones includes the announcement of the new production facility at Carcroft Common in Doncaster, UK, which is expected to create 1,200 skilled jobs, boosting the local economy.
Additionally, HAV has formally applied for Type Certification with the UK Civil Aviation Authority, marking a critical step towards the commercial launch of the Airlander 10. The company has also surpassed £1.4 billion in reservations for the Airlander 10, with commitments from major players like Air Nostrum Group, Europe’s largest regional airline, and eco-tourism provider Grands Espaces.
Driving Sustainability
With Tony Anderson’s expertise, HAV is well-positioned to continue its mission of reducing aviation’s carbon footprint. The Airlander 10 is designed to cut emissions by up to 90%, with an ambitious goal of achieving zero emissions by the end of the decade. Anderson’s strategic vision will be crucial in guiding HAV’s marketing and sales efforts as the company moves closer to introducing the Airlander 10 to the market.
Words from Tony Anderson
Reflecting on his new role, Tony Anderson stated, « I’ve always believed the importance of timing is underestimated as a contributory factor in commercial success. In 1995, I was fortunate to be a part of the team launching easyJet when Europe’s skies were opening up to competition, and a young entrepreneur named Stelios made the bold decision to launch the world’s first airline to sell 100% to the public.
« Today is also a hugely exciting time in aviation. The demand for air transport of both goods and passengers continues to grow, and sustainability has become a global imperative that requires aviation and its stakeholders to ‘rethink the skies’. I’m convinced that the next 5-10 years will be a period where new approaches and technologies are tested, certified, and become established. HAV, with its real-world experience of having built and tested Airlander, is poised to be a key player in this emerging ecosystem. I’m delighted to join and support Tom and the team at Hybrid Air Vehicles on this exciting journey.”
Leadership Endorsement
Tom Grundy, CEO of Hybrid Air Vehicles, expressed his enthusiasm about the appointment, stating, « We are thrilled to welcome Tony to our advisory board. His experience at easyJet, bringing a disruptive new idea to market, will be invaluable as we introduce a new type of aircraft to our skies. Tony’s insights and strategic vision will be instrumental in guiding HAV through the next phase of our growth and development, especially within our marketing and sales functions.
« We’re committed to revolutionising what is currently possible in air transport. The Airlander offers a sustainable and efficient solution for both passenger and cargo transport. Tony’s appointment marks a significant step forward in our mission to rethink the skies.”
The Path Ahead
Tony Anderson’s appointment signifies a new chapter for Hybrid Air Vehicles, aligning with the company’s vision of a more sustainable and innovative future in aviation. With his extensive experience and strategic insight, HAV is set to make significant strides in bringing the Airlander 10 to market, offering a game-changing solution for the aviation industry. As HAV continues to advance towards its goals, the aviation community and the world at large will be watching closely, anticipating the transformative impact of the Airlander 10.
In a rapidly evolving industry, HAV’s commitment to sustainability and innovation, bolstered by Tony Anderson’s expertise, heralds a promising future. With strategic leadership and groundbreaking technology, Hybrid Air Vehicles is poised to redefine the skies.
