Season 3: episode 17 – in conversation with Tom Grundy
In this video, Chris Caldwell introduces Tom Grundy, CEO of Hybrid Air Vehicles (HAV), who shares his insights on the future of flight and the role of hybrid aircraft technology in creating a more sustainable aviation industry. The Airlander-10, HAV’s iconic aircraft, represents a new category in aviation that promises to make air travel more efficient, accessible, and environmentally friendly.
Tom discusses the potential of hybrid aircraft to connect underserved regions, create new economic opportunities, and reduce the carbon footprint of air travel. He outlines HAV’s vision for redefining the skies and paving the way for a greener future in aviation.
“…when I talk emotionally about what we’re doing in the UK, it’s because I see the power of what we’re doing to create, something new for the next generation…”
“so we can do some of the things other aircraft can’t. For passengers. It’s really good because it means that we can’t squeeze you in three abreast with the seat there in front of you…so you’re going to get more space…”
“…the kicker is that that carbon dioxide is doing more damage by being emitted in the stratosphere rather than at ground level. And the contrails that are behind the aircraft, they’re a big deal. We’re only just really working out how big.”
“…it’s a really optimistic project. This is about creating better connections for a more sustainable future, not just delivering the same connections with a bit less CO2…it’s something we can do here and now…”
This talk was given by Tom Grundy, CEO of Hybrid Air Vehicles, at the London Business School as part of their The Future of Flight: Rethinking the Skies Series on Wednesday, 26th June 2024, for more information on the series contact Christopher Moseley, Senior PR Manager, London Business School.
HIGHLIGHTS:
00:05 Efficiency and versatility of aircraft operations
02:20 Climate change is driving industry changes.
06:16 Geopolitics impacting global aviation
08:16 Flight industry changing in the future
12:41 Efficiency gap between surface transport and aircraft
14:42 Aviation industry emissions forecasted to increase due to growth, but can be mitigated through various strategies.
18:59 Hydrogen as an alternative aviation fuel with potential challenges
24:47 Sustainable Aviation fuels require significant land and energy resources
26:48 Private investment in sustainable fuel is dwarfed by other aviation technologies like EVs.
30:28 Pioneering zero-emissions aircraft for better connectivity
32:28 Development of AirLand technology for large-scale infrastructure in aviation
36:19 Creating a sustainable future through green Aerospace manufacturing
38:22 Decarbonizing aviation through alternative flight technologies
42:05 Test pilots enjoy unique privileges.
43:55 Lack of progress in decarbonization and innovation in aviation
47:44 Infrastructure in aviation has evolved rapidly for passenger efficiency.
49:25 Lack of infrastructure investment hindering sustainable aviation fuel progress
53:06 Helium scarcity is a concern for the long-term use of airships.
55:06 Helium’s varied industrial uses and supply stability
59:08 UK has the expertise and skills to create new opportunities for the next generation in aircraft design and manufacturing.
1:00:57 The hidden benefits of manufacturing are crucial for the UK and economies in general.
1:04:41 Belief in optimizing systems, processes, and people for optimum outcomes.
1:06:44 MBA changed leadership approach to be more understanding and mindful
1:10:39 Innovative aircraft design for more space and capacity
1:12:42 Certification system for aircraft types is diverse and specialized.
1:16:44 Reducing capital intensity by using dual forms of lift
1:18:38 Designing an airplane to meet the airline’s costs, passenger comfort, emissions reduction, and on-time delivery.
1:22:38 Airlander developed with 130 million pounds, half funded by customers, the rest from grants and investors
1:24:35 Funding sources secured for the project
REFERENCES:
Linkedin – Tom Grundy: https://bit.ly/4gO71Qj
Linkedin – Hybrid Air vehicles: https://bit.ly/4eQRjCb
Hybrid Air Vehicles Website: https://www.hybridairvehicles.com
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This Conversations on Climate podcast episode is brought to you by UNITED RENEWABLES in association with London Business School. We’d love to have you join us! Don’t forget to share with your colleagues, friends, and family. We would love to hear your opinions and feedback, so please leave your comments on our platforms.
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