Former Airbus executive Valerie Manning is one of the latest aviation experts to join the leadership team at California-based Overair.
Manning will act as the company’s chief commercial officer as of Sept. 1. She was previously the senior vice president of training and flight operation services at Airbus.
Manning will lead Overair’s commercial strategy, business development, marketing, sales, support, and in-service operations infrastructure as the company finalizes its full-scale eVTOL prototype and prepares for commercial launch in the second half of 2023.
“I’m so excited to join the Overair team and to address the challenge of building the company and bringing its business ambitions to fruition,” Manning said. “I chose Overair due to its state-of-the-art technology, innovative and inclusive spirit, and deep commitment to advancing sustainable aviation through eVTOL.”
As a retired U.S. Air Force officer, Manning holds a doctoral degree in aeronautics and astronautics from Stanford University. She is also a flight instructor and jet-rated commercial pilot certified with the European Union Aviation Safety Administration (EASA).
“Valerie’s unique combination of corporate, military, and aviation experience, on top of her world-class technical capabilities, will help us convert Overair’s technology and product advantages into real-world value for communities and Overair’s stakeholders,” said Ben Tigner, Overair’s CEO. “As an accomplished pilot, Valerie also understands the benefits eVTOL will bring to urban areas, and she will be key to unlocking our success.”
Spun out of Karem Aircraft, Overair completed its full-scale propulsion testing earlier this year. The company is developing a piloted eVTOL with a targeted payload of 1,100 pounds (500 kilograms) that will be able to accommodate up to five passengers or cargo. The aircraft is expected to have a range of 100 miles (160 kilometers), and top speeds of 200 mph (320 km/h).
Overair has operating partnerships with Hanwha Systems, as well as Bristow Group, which has agreed to pre-order up to 50 of Overair’s eVTOL aircraft.
