IAG launches its eighth edition of its Hangar 51 Accelerator programme

International Airlines Group (IAG) has launched the eighth edition of its Hangar 51 Accelerator programme which comes after IAG updated its strategic priorities in its Capital Markets Day at the end of last year. Hangar 51 is looking for start-ups and scale-ups that can help the Group to innovate and deliver in its transformation ambition, which underpins its strategy.

IAG has defined strategic areas which are: Sustainability, Safe & Efficient Operations, Seamless & Experiential Airports, and End-to-End Customer Experience Enhancement. These areas reflect the Group’s intention to keep innovation activities as close to the core business as possible. The Group wants to generate a positive commercial impact from innovation and that is what makes Hangar 51 different to traditional accelerator programmes. In just a few weeks, companies will design and run a proof of value to assess the potential of their solutions. Joiners will be able to test their technology under operational conditions, working with experts across the Group.

Through the Hangar 51 Accelerator, the selected companies will:

• Work with airlines or operating companies on a proof of value, with the possibility of a commercial contract if successful.

• Gain a deep insight into aviation operations and develop their understanding of aviation customer needs and preferences.

• Benefit from introductions across the Group and the broader industry.

Annalisa Gigante, IAG’s Head of Innovation, said: “We are looking forward to testing, learning, and delivering new solutions at scale, with a focus on speed and value. Start-ups are an important part of our journey, as we will reach our goals faster with their help and involvement. At IAG we believe that transformation will bring us in line with the industry, while innovation will enable us to leapfrog it. So, Innovation is not an option. It is essential for our growth and our long-term success and will bring value to IAG and our airlines and teams.”

Through the Hangar 51 Accelerator, IAG’s open innovation focuses on addressing key challenges within the industry, including sustainability, operational efficiency, and customer-centric solutions. IAG is committed to decarbonisation and accelerating change towards a more sustainable industry by leveraging sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) solutions and optimising operational practices to minimise environmental impact.

Since launching the Hangar 51 Accelerator in 2016, IAG has partnered with around 80 participants. Now, the Group, in partnership with the global innovation platform Plug and Play, will welcome up to 15 participants to collaborate, learn, and grow together during the second half of the year. Applications for the eighth programme today are now open.