Advancing UK Aerospace, Defence, Security & Space Solutions Worldwide

Aerospace

BAR-UK appoints Michael Smeeth as CEO

BAR-UK, the aviation trade body representing the majority of airlines operating to the UK, has announced the appointment of Michael Smeeth as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO), effective 4th November 2024.

Image courtesy BAR-UK

Michael Smeeth (above) brings with him over 25 years of executive leadership experience and a track record of success in advancing innovation, operational excellence and sustainable growth.

Michael  joins BAR-UK at a pivotal time for the aviation industry, with a new UK Government, an increasing drive to achieve sustainability goals and a determination to enable continued economic growth. As Chief Executive, Michael will lead the development and execution of BAR-UK's strategic roadmap, championing initiatives that advance BAR-UK’s mission to be the unified voice for airlines in the UK, advocating for policies and practices that foster a competitive, safe and sustainable aviation environment.

Advertisement
ODU RT

Michael  has held a range of senior roles including Chief Commercial Officer for General Electric (GE) in the UK and Ireland, Commercial Development & Portfolio Director for Sustainable Development Capital (SDCL) and most recently as Chief Executive Officer at Transition Hydrogen Solutions. He said: "I am thrilled to join BAR-UK at such an exciting and critical time. BAR-UK has a tremendous legacy, and I am honoured to build on its excellent work.

"Together with our talented team, I look forward to advancing our commitment to advocate for the delivery of a competitive, safe and sustainable aviation environment.”

Advertisement
ODU RT

Colin Stewart, Chairman of the Board of BAR-UK, said "We are delighted to welcome Michael as BAR-UK’s new Chief Executive. He brings the right blend of insight, strategic acumen and visionary leadership.

"We are confident Michael will be instrumental in propelling BAR-UK toward even greater achievements."

Advertisement
Hexagon leaderboard
BAE Systems

Aerospace Defence

BAE Systems' Iain Minton to chair new manufacturing and tech coalition

21 May 2026

BAE Systems' tech specialist Iain Minton has been appointed to chair a new coalition of manufacturing and industrial technology experts helping SMEs tackle the challenges and opportunities created by AI, automation and digital transformation.

Ontic appoints Jean-Christophe Gallagher as CEO

Aerospace

Ontic appoints Jean-Christophe Gallagher as CEO

21 May 2026

Ontic has announced the appointment of Jean-Christophe (JC) Gallagher as Chief Executive Officer (CEO), as the company builds on a sustained period of strong growth.

Muirhead Avionics appointed ARC for selected IA products

Aerospace

Muirhead Avionics appointed ARC for selected IA products

19 May 2026

AMETEK MRO's Muirhead Avionics, announced today that it has entered into a long term agreement with Innovative Aerosystems (IA) to become an Authorised Repair Centre (ARC) for selected legacy avionics products formerly developed under Honeywell product lines and now fully supported by IA.

Intelligent Energy joins UK alliance to accelerate hydrogen flight

Aerospace

Intelligent Energy joins UK alliance to accelerate hydrogen flight

19 May 2026

Intelligent Energy (IE) has joined the Hydrogen in Aviation Alliance, alongside leading UK aerospace and UK hydrogen fuel cell manufacturer, Intelligent Energy (IE), has joined the Hydrogen in Aviation Alliance (HIA),which brings together companies from across aerospace, including Airbus, Bristol Airport, easyJet, GKN Aerospace and ...

Advertisement
ODU RT
Hexagon releases NCSIMUL upgrade

Aerospace Defence

Hexagon releases NCSIMUL upgrade

19 May 2026

Hexagon’s Production Software Division has announced the latest release of NCSIMUL, strengthening its integrated approach to NC programme verification, simulation and optimisation with a new Selective Simulation capability.

ATI launches tech strategy to double value of UK aerospace

Aerospace

ATI launches tech strategy to double value of UK aerospace

19 May 2026

The Aerospace Technology Institute (ATI) has today launched the latest UK technology strategy targeting a generational prize of doubling the UK aerospace sector's market value to $18 billion (£13.44bn) by 2035 and increasing by over four times, to $41 billion (£30.6bn), by 2050.

Advertisement
ODU RT
Advertisement
FIA2026 animated banner