Advancing UK Aerospace, Defence, Security & Space Solutions Worldwide

Aerospace

AOA appoints Karen Dee as Chief Executive

The Airport Operators Association (AOA) has announced that Karen Dee has been appointed as the AOA's new Chief Executive, taking over from the outgoing Chief Executive Darren Caplan.

Above: Karen Dee.
Courtesy FTA

Karen is currently Director of Policy at the Freight Transport Association (FTA).

Chairman of the AOA, Ed Anderson said: “The AOA Board is delighted to announce that Karen Dee will be joining us as the Association’s new Chief Executive. The AOA Team and our members look forward to working with Karen as we open the next chapter of the AOA's development.

Advertisement
ODU RT

“Karen has a wealth of experience in the transport sector and she joins the AOA at an important time for the sector.  With the Government intending to set out an Aviation Strategy in the coming year, Karen will enable the AOA to set the agenda for a successful and sustainable airport and aviation sector.

“As we look forward, we also want to thank Darren Caplan for his six years of outstanding service to the AOA, during which time the AOA has flourished enabling Karen to build on strong foundations.”

Incoming Chief Executive of the AOA, Karen Dee said: “I am excited to be joining the AOA at such a significant time, when UK airports have the opportunity to capitalise on last year’s important Government capacity decision and now shape an Aviation Strategy that supports sustainable airport growth across the UK.

“2017 will also be the year the UK will start its negotiations to leave the EU. I look forward to working with colleagues from across the aviation sector to shape a future agreement with the EU that secures continued UK access to the Single Aviation Market and sees continued air services agreements with important markets like the US, enabling UK and European aviation to continue to grow.

Advertisement
ODU RT

“The AOA is a trade association with a strong heritage and I relish the opportunity to work with the AOA Team and its members to build on the AOA’s many achievements and champion the industry in the coming years.”


 

Advertisement
FIA2026 animated banner
NPAS supports South Wales Police op targeting illegal bikes

Aerospace Security

NPAS supports South Wales Police op targeting illegal bikes

1 May 2026

The National Police Air Service (NPAS) supported South Wales Police during a targeted operation in Swansea and Neath Port Talbot to tackle the illegal and anti‑social use of electric bikes and motorbikes.

Made Smarter launches AI toolkit

Aerospace Defence Security Space

Made Smarter launches AI toolkit

1 May 2026

A new guide has been published by Made Smarter to help manufacturers cut through the noise around artificial intelligence (AI) and focus on what actually works on the factory floor.

Hexagon completes acquisition of Inertial Sense

Aerospace Defence Security

Hexagon completes acquisition of Inertial Sense

1 May 2026

Hexagon announced yesterday the successful completion of the acquisition of Inertial Sense, strengthening its assured positioning, navigation and timing (PNT) portfolio with tactical-grade GNSS+INS technology.

Beldam Crossley awarded King’s Award for Enterprise for International Trade

Aerospace Defence

Beldam Crossley awarded King’s Award for Enterprise for International Trade

1 May 2026

Bolton based Beldam Crossley Limited has been honoured with a King’s Award for Enterprise: International Trade, recognising the company’s outstanding short-term growth in overseas sales.

Advertisement
ODU RT
Skills Academy to open at Airbus Filton

Aerospace

Skills Academy to open at Airbus Filton

1 May 2026

Weston College and University Centre Weston (UCW) have announced plans for an exciting new Skills Academy in the aerospace & Defence space, located at Airbus Filton, Bristol.

Rolls-Royce wins LATAM Airlines Trent 1000 XE order

Aerospace

Rolls-Royce wins LATAM Airlines Trent 1000 XE order

30 April 2026

Rolls-Royce has been selected by LATAM Airlines to power three Boeing 787 Dreamliners with Trent 1000 XE engines.

Advertisement
ODU RT
Advertisement
Hexagon leaderboard