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
FIA2026 animated banner
Cranfield leads UK research into aviation’s non-CO₂ climate impacts

Aerospace

Cranfield leads UK research into aviation’s non-CO₂ climate impacts

23 April 2026

Cranfield University has been selected to play a key role in a major UK research initiative aimed at improving the understanding of aviation’s non CO₂ climate impacts.

Ontic introduces strategic teardown procurement initiative

Aerospace

Ontic introduces strategic teardown procurement initiative

23 April 2026

Ontic has introduced a new teardown procurement initiative to address one of the industry's most persistent challenges, namely the availability of hard-to-source components for established platforms.

Aurrigo opens advanced engineering hub in Coventry

Aerospace

Aurrigo opens advanced engineering hub in Coventry

22 April 2026

Provider of fully autonomous vehicles and mobile robotics platforms, Aurrigo, has announced the opening of its new UK Hub facility, marking a major milestone in the company’s growth and manufacturing capability.

Chapman Freeborn strengthens European passenger division

Aerospace

Chapman Freeborn strengthens European passenger division

22 April 2026

Chapman Freeborn has strengthened its European passenger division with new leadership appointments aimed at supporting growth across the region.

Advertisement
ODU RT
Aerospace Bristol appoints Lloyd Hughes as first COO

Aerospace

Aerospace Bristol appoints Lloyd Hughes as first COO

22 April 2026

Aerospace Bristol has appointed Lloyd Hughes as its first ever chief operating officer (COO), marking a significant milestone in the museum's development as it pursues its ambitious ten-year strategy to double visitor numbers and grow its commercial operations.

Hexagon unveils laser tech for aerospace inspections

Aerospace

Hexagon unveils laser tech for aerospace inspections

22 April 2026

Hexagon’s Manufacturing Intelligence Business Area today unveiled new laser-guided solutions that make it possible – in some cases for the first time – to automate inaccessible and large-scale quality inspections in labour-intensive operations such as aircraft assembly.

Advertisement
ODU RT
Advertisement
Gulfstream banner