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
Gulfstream 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
Leonardo 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
Babcock LB
IATA sees rising passenger and cargo growth in May

Aerospace

IATA sees rising passenger and cargo growth in May

30 June 2025

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) released data for May 2025 that revealed global passenger demand was up by 5% and global air cargo demand grew by 2.2%.

ECT Aviation acquires its first Britten-Norman BN2T-4S Islander

Aerospace

ECT Aviation acquires its first Britten-Norman BN2T-4S Islander

30 June 2025

Republic of Ireland based ECT Aviation has acquired its first Britten-Norman BN2T-4S Islander aircraft, expanding its operations into dedicated cargo services between Europe and North Africa.

IBA predicts more large orders of aircraft in 2025

Aerospace

IBA predicts more large orders of aircraft in 2025

30 June 2025

Despite the Air India tragedy and a range of economic and political factors impacting the aviation industry, reflected by a subdued level of orders at this year's Paris Air Show, aviation intelligence and advisory company IBA predicts that a range of major airlines are set to place additional aircraft orders.

Qantas takes delivery of its first A321XLR

Aerospace

Qantas takes delivery of its first A321XLR

30 June 2025

Australia's Qantas Airways is set to become the Asia-Pacific launch operator of the latest generation single aisle A321XLR following the delivery of its first aircraft from the Airbus assembly line in Finkenwerder, Hamburg.

Advertisement
DSEI 2025
Syensqo and Terma strengthen partnership

Aerospace Defence Security

Syensqo and Terma strengthen partnership

30 June 2025

Advanced materials specialist Syensqo and Terma, provider of mission-critical solutions in aerospace, defence and security, have signed a strategic collaboration agreement to develop joint initiatives in composites for next-generation aerospace and defence applications.

Windracers establishes operational hub in Malawi

Aerospace Security

Windracers establishes operational hub in Malawi

27 June 2025

Windracers, the UK-based designer, manufacturer and operator of Windracers ULTRA - an autonomous heavy-lift cargo aircraft - has begun establishing an operational base at Kasungu Airfield in Malawi.

Advertisement
ODU RT