Accelerator

Hangar 51, the innovation team at International Airlines Group (IAG), continuously pushes the boundaries of the travel industry with emerging technologies and new approaches through our Accelerator Programme.

Applications for the 2024 Accelerator are now closed.
Scroll down to learn more.

How the accelerator works

We scout for and partner with start-ups and scale-ups to fast-track the testing and implementation of new technologies by delivering proof of value to solve a current business challenge in just a few weeks.

Strategic themes

Transforming travel

We are looking for new technologies to help us elevate our customer experience and operations, such as digitised services for friction-free travel, new product offerings, automation, and data science to optimise revenue and operational planning.

Accelerating sustainability 

We are committed to decarbonisation and accelerating change towards a more sustainable industry. Technologies of interest include sustainable aviation fuel, zero emission flight, carbon removal, electrification and sustainable materials.

Fostering disruption

We want to hear from companies developing solutions to fundamentally shift the way people and cargo move over the next twenty years.

Benefits

You will learn from the best

Fast-tracked proof of value

Showcase how your solution can help from kick-off to delivery from 10 to 12 weeks.

Industry experts

Work with subject matter experts and gain a deep insight into aviation operations.

Solution feedback

Develop your understanding of aviation customer needs and preferences.

Commercial opportunity

Potential for full implementation following a successful proof of value.

Expanded network

Benefit from introductions across our group and the wider industry. 

Timeline

Open call

The accelerator is designed to support the testing and implementation of new technologies and solutions that have the potential to solve key business challenges; as such, we don’t have hard criteria for what we consider a start-up or scale-up.
In the past, we have worked with companies from pre-seed to post Series D, but most are between Seed and Series B.
We review applications on a rolling basis so encourage you to apply early.

Applications Open: 13 May 2024

Applications Deadline: 16 June 2024

Evaluation

We will work closely with our airlines and operating companies to understand their requirements, scout for leading solutions and help them screen for the best fit. Our decision will be based on a number of factors such as fit with our business requirements, solution maturity, ability to implement and scale across our group and future commercial terms.

Interviews: From 24 June 2024

Cohort Announcement: September 2024

Accelerator

Our 12-week, intensive collaboration begins!
We will set out key objectives for the accelerator and you'll receive mentorship from a senior sponsor and support from experts across the business to help you towards these goals.

Programme Kick-off: September 2024

Demo Day

The accelerator wraps up with Demo Day, our annual event where you get to showcase and celebrate everything you've achieved and present your proposal for future engagement with IAG to our ecosystem.

Demo Day: 27 November 2024

Join us to redefine the flying experience
Imagine what we can do together

Some of the incredible innovators we have worked with

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How can we help?

How do you decide which start-up to work with?

We work closely with our airlines and operating companies to understand their requirements, scout for leading solutions and help them screen for the best fit. Our decision will be based on a number of factors such as fit with our business requirements, solution maturity, ability to implement and scale across our group and future commercial terms.

What stage does my company need to be at to be eligible to participate in the accelerator?

The accelerator is designed to support the testing and implementation of new technologies and solutions that have the potential to solve key business challenges; as such, we don’t have hard criteria for what we consider a start-up or scale-up. In the past, we have worked with companies from pre-seed to post Series D, but most are between Seed and Series B.