Hangar X Studios

In this episode of Hangar X Studios, host John Ramstead talks with Manoel Coelho, CEO and Founder of Speedbird Aero, the company pioneering autonomous logistics and drone delivery.

From launching Brazil’s first certified drone delivery operation to partnerships in Israel, Scotland, and Singapore, Speedbird is proving how unmanned aerial systems (UAS) can transform food, medical, and cargo transport.

Manoel shares how his team overcame regulatory and technical hurdles to deliver real-world impact — from tackling food scarcity to enabling advanced medical logistics.

This episode explores what’s next for Part 108 drone operations, insights from BVLOS (Beyond Visual Line of Sight) missions abroad, and why collaboration with aviation authorities is key for the future of aerial mobility.

If you’re in aerospace, logistics, or curious about autonomous flight, this is a must-listen masterclass in innovation.

💡 Episode Highlights
• The journey of Speedbird Aero — from concept to certification.
• Overcoming Brazil’s toughest aviation and safety challenges.
• BVLOS success stories — drones solving food and delivery gaps.
• Lessons from missions in Israel, Scotland, and Singapore.
• Balancing technology, automation, and human oversight.
• What Part 108 means for U.S. drone operations.
• Building a connected global drone ecosystem.

🕒 Key Points & Timestamps

[00:00:00] – Opening Thoughts
Manoel Coelho on the slow but essential process of scaling drone operations and public acceptance.

[00:01:00] – Welcome
John introduces the episode, sponsored by XTI Aerospace, and sets the stage for BVLOS and the vertical economy.

[00:02:20] – Meet Manoel
CEO of Speedbird, Brazil’s first ANAC-approved drone delivery operator, and a global BVLOS pioneer.

[00:04:21] – Launching in Brazil
Starting with food delivery through iFood, Latin America’s largest delivery company.

[00:06:44] – Early Challenges
From certification to operational safety, Speedbird proved the viability of commercial drone logistics.

[00:07:54] – Airspace Integration
First to integrate with Brazil’s Air Force ATM system — daily NOTAMs and 10-hour drone operations.

[00:09:15] – Solving Real Problems
Connecting cities divided by rivers and congestion — delivering food where roads couldn’t.

[00:10:54] – Community Impact
Public curiosity turned to trust as drones became part of daily life.

[00:13:44] – Automation & Remote Operations
Shifted from local pilots to remote control centers 2,000 km away — enabling true BVLOS scalability.

[00:19:12] – Medical Logistics
Expanded to lab and organ transport, earning Brazil’s first UN 3373 Category B certification.

[00:22:01] – Global Expansion
Partnerships with Cando Drones (Israel) and Skyports (Scotland, Singapore) — learning from UTM and GPS-denied zones.

[00:25:14] – Weather Operations
Adapting to microclimates and integrating weather data for safe flight planning.

[00:27:54] – Non-Cooperative Traffic
Highlighting risks from uncoordinated aircraft and stressing global airspace accountability.

[00:30:19] – Part 108 in the U.S.
Why BVLOS growth lags and how Part 108 could enable nationwide scaling.

[00:34:27] – Connected Airspace Future
The vision for UTM, cross-border operations, and Speedbird’s global collaborations.

👤 Guest Bio — Manoel Coelho
CEO and Co-Founder of Speedbird Aero, the first company in Latin America certified by ANAC for drone delivery. A telemedicine innovator with 10+ years in aviation integration, Manoel has led thousands of BVLOS missions worldwide, advancing drone logistics for food, medical, and cargo delivery.

His leadership positioned Speedbird as a global player, partnering with iFood, Skyports, and Cando Drones, and collaborating with aviation authorities globally.
🔗 LinkedIn – Manoel Coelho

About Speedbird Aero
Speedbird Aero is a Brazil-based leader in autonomous logistics and drone delivery. Founded by Manoel Coelho, it became Latin America’s first ANAC-certified company for commercial BVLOS operations. Speedbird delivers food, medical supplies, and cargo across challenging terrains through partnerships in Israel, Scotland, Singapore, and the U.S.
🌐 www.speedbird.aero

🗣️ Notable Quotes
“We can’t scale yet because people still need to understand — unmanned aircraft will be flying more and more.” – Manoel Coelho
“Our goal was simple: solve the problem first, prove the economics, then scale.” – Manoel Coelho
“It’s not just drones; it’s the future of mobility, commerce, and connection.” – John Ramstead
“BVLOS doesn’t mean the pilot sits nearby — it means the pilot can be anywhere.” – Manoel Coelho
“Cargo drones are here now. Let’s start paying attention before the skies get crowded.” – Manoel Coelho

In this episode of Hangar X Studios, host John Ramstead sits down with Steve Zohabian, Chief Operating Officer at XTI Aerospace, to discuss how the company is reshaping the future of flight with the TriFan 600. From DARPA’s “Frankenstein” Learjet experiment to the next generation of vertical takeoff and landing aircraft, Steve shares how XTI is leveraging proven technology, agile processes, and a visionary team to unlock what he calls the “vertical skyway.” This conversation covers the technical, regulatory, and business challenges of advanced air mobility—and why XTI’s hybrid approach is poised to change aviation forever.

• XTI Aerospace’s bold vision for the TriFan 600 and the “vertical skyway”
• The “cookbook” of people, tools, and processes to accelerate innovation
• DARPA’s Sprint program and the “Frankenstein Learjet” experiment
• Lessons learned from ducted fan technology and rapid prototyping
• Balancing certification, safety, and innovation in aviation
• The multi-mission versatility of the TriFan 600: passenger, cargo, and military use cases
• Why funding, trust, and credible execution will drive the next phase of aerospace transformation

• [00:00:00] – Steve Zohabian introduces the concept of opening a “new skyway” for vertical and conventional takeoff.
• [00:01:50] – John reviews Steve’s background: Piasecki Aircraft, Boeing, and ducted fan expertise.
• [00:03:27] – The “cookbook” for scaling aerospace innovation: people, tools, and processes.
• [00:04:36] – The DARPA “Sprint” program and how Piasecki created a demonstrator in record time.
• [00:05:31] – Transforming a Learjet into a vertical takeoff aircraft: the “Frankenstein” design.
• [00:06:31] – Importance of ingenuity, supply chain trust, and engineering agility.
• [00:07:14] – Lessons from ducted fan technology and breaking new ground.
• [00:08:14] – Comparing legacy aerospace with new innovators: leapfrogging technology.
• [00:09:05] – The roadmap: prototype, certification, and production.
• [00:10:03] – Balancing engineering design with FAA certification requirements.
• [00:10:56] – Safety first: early engagement with the FAA and proven supply chains.
• [00:12:11] – The “vertical skyway” vision and how it differs from eVTOL infrastructure limits.
• [00:13:14] – Market differentiation: TriFan can take off conventionally, on short runways, or vertically.
• [00:14:45] – Beyond high-net-worth users: cargo logistics, dual-use, and military applications.
• [00:15:43] – The biggest challenge ahead: funding and building investor confidence.
• [00:17:07] – The 90-day plan: review decisions, establish a baseline, and align with the FAA.
• [00:19:19] – Why Steve chose XTI: the perfect moment to harness decades of innovation.

Steve Zohabian is the Chief Operating Officer at XTI Aerospace, where he leads efforts to bring the groundbreaking TriFan 600 vertical takeoff and landing aircraft into production. Previously, Steve served as COO of Piasecki Aircraft, where he spearheaded the transformation into a next-generation VTOL company and led DARPA’s Sprint program. With deep engineering and leadership experience at Boeing on programs like the V-22 Osprey and Chinook, Steve is recognized as one of the leading experts in ducted fan technology. His career reflects a unique blend of technical innovation and executive leadership, positioning him to drive XTI’s mission of opening the vertical skyway.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/zohrabian

XTI Aerospace is an aviation company dedicated to transforming air travel through its development of the TriFan 600, a revolutionary vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) aircraft. Combining the convenience of a helicopter with the speed and range of a business jet, the TriFan 600 is designed for point-to-point travel without the need for new infrastructure. XTI focuses on creating safe, efficient, and versatile aircraft that can serve multiple markets, from regional mobility and business travel to cargo and military applications. With a leadership team experienced in aerospace innovation and certification, the company is working to open what it calls a new “vertical skyway,” redefining how people and goods move across regions.

• “We’re opening up really the opportunity for folks to land and take off wherever they want—ultimately bringing the holy grail of flight.” – Steve Zohabian [00:00:00]
• “People, tools, and processes—that’s the cookbook for transformation.” – Steve Zohabian [00:03:27]
• “We chopped off the wings, put ducted fans on, and turned a Learjet into a piece of art.” – Steve Zohabian [00:05:57]
• “Leapfrog technology, but take a credible approach when it comes to certification.” – Steve Zohabian [00:08:14]

Former fighter pilot and host John Ramstead sits down with Dr. Alex Williams for a fast paced masterclass on building world class engineering cultures and the future of aerospace. Alex traces his path from Pratt & Whitney’s combustor technology group to running research labs inside Apple, where he helped pioneer materials innovations such as 7000 series aluminum for iPhone and the engineered titanium surface for Apple Watch. He contrasts slow, committee driven aerospace workflows with Apple’s high velocity, quality obsessed model, then applies those lessons to three urgent vectors shaping aviation today: autonomy and control software, anti drone defenses, and American reindustrialization. Along the way, you will hear practical advice for leaders who want to move faster without sacrificing safety or quality.

Alex Williams, PhD is a technical consultant and engineering leader with deep experience in aerospace and advanced materials. He began his career at Pratt & Whitney in the combustor technology development group, delivering innovations for programs with NASA and the U.S. Air Force and learning alongside engineers behind the F119 engine for the F 22. Alex later led research labs within Apple, contributing to landmark materials work including the adoption of 7000 series aluminum for iPhone and engineered titanium surfaces for Apple Watch. Today he advises companies and investors across autonomy, anti drone systems, and industrial supply chains, and is a co-founder of Darkstar Laboratories, currently in stealth.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexanderwwilliams/

Former Army helicopter pilot and FAA leader James “Jim” Viola, now President and CEO of the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA), joins host John Ramstead to map where aerospace manufacturing and operations are headed next. From composites and 3D printing to data-driven certification, AI, and hybrid-electric propulsion, Jim explains how innovation can move faster while staying safe. He opens up on supply chain bottlenecks, why condition-based maintenance must replace calendar-based overhauls, what it will take to make AAM and eVTOL commercially viable, and why ATC modernization is the critical path to scale. If you care about building, certifying, or flying the future of aviation, this is your playbook.

James “Jim” Viola is President and CEO of the General Aviation Manufacturers Association, representing aircraft, engine, avionics, MRO, and training providers worldwide. He is a retired U.S. Army helicopter pilot with 27 years of service, followed by 12 years at the FAA in senior leadership roles. Before joining GAMA, he led the Helicopter Association International, now VAI. Jim remains an active pilot and advocate for safe, scalable innovation across general aviation, rotorcraft, and advanced air mobility.

The General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) is an international trade association that represents the interests of companies involved in designing, manufacturing, and maintaining general aviation aircraft, engines, avionics, and related equipment. Founded in 1970 and headquartered in Washington, D.C., GAMA works to promote safety, innovation, and growth within the general aviation industry. It also advocates for policies that support manufacturing, safety standards, environmental responsibility, and access to airspace worldwide. Through research, training, and public outreach, GAMA plays a key role in advancing the global general aviation sector.

Propellers may not be the “sexy” part of an aircraft, but the team at Athule Aero is proving they’re the key to unlocking the future of advanced air mobility. In this episode of Hangar X Studios, host John Ramstead sits down with Tony Bacarella, CEO of Athule, to explore how their patented “Double Break” propeller technology is cutting noise by up to 75% and improving efficiency by up to 15%. From custom AI-designed blades for drones to game-changing applications in manned VTOLs, general aviation and even naval uses, Tony explains why the humble propeller is the next big catalyst for aerospace innovation.

Tony Bacarella is the CEO of Athule Aero, a company redefining propeller technology for drones, advanced air mobility, and general aviation. Working with co-founders from the Air Force Academy and Baylor University, Tony helped transform patented “Double Break” propeller technology—originally validated through an AFWERX SBIR program—into a scalable business. Under his leadership, Athule has developed AI/ML-driven design tools to deliver quieter, more efficient, custom propellers for applications ranging from ISR military platforms to urban air taxis.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/tony-bacarella-95969411/

Athule Aero is an innovative aerospace company specializing in next-generation propeller technology for drones, advanced air mobility, and general aviation. Using its patented “Double Break” blade design and AI-driven engineering tools, Athule creates custom propellers that dramatically reduce noise and improve efficiency. With roots in Air Force–backed research, the company delivers quieter, more efficient solutions for commercial, military, and urban air mobility applications—helping unlock the full potential of next-generation aircraft.

“Knocking the cabin noise down by 75% for somebody and giving them 10–15% more range is going to be really significant.” — Tony Bacarella [00:00:00]

“The propeller is actually one of the few places you can impact a vehicle nearly as much as we can.” — Tony Bacarella [00:04:49]

“We deload the tip, eliminate the vortex, and can even shape the noise profile around the airframe.” — Tony Bacarella [00:08:36]

“Advanced air mobility is the hockey stick for the industry in the manned space.” — Tony Bacarella [00:15:20]

“We can deliver a custom propeller in days, not months, using cloud-based AI and additive manufacturing.” — Tony Bacarella [00:17:28]

In this episode of Hangar X Studios, host John Ramstead sits down with Dana Sande, President of the UND Aerospace Foundation, to explore how the University of North Dakota became a global leader in aviation and unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) education. From pioneering the first unmanned aircraft pilot degree program in the U.S. to building cutting-edge facilities like Gorman Field, the conversation dives into UND’s influence on commercial aviation, UAS innovation, and partnerships with both private industry and the military.

Listeners will gain insight into how UND’s Aerospace Foundation helps the university “operate at the speed of business,” supporting rapid prototyping, pilot training, and drone testing—all while keeping education affordable for future aviation leaders.

If you’ve ever wondered how UND shaped the future of unmanned aviation and why Grand Forks has become a hub for aerospace innovation, this episode is packed with answers.

Dana Sande is the President of the UND Aerospace Foundation, a nonprofit organization created to help the University of North Dakota’s aerospace program connect with governments, industries, and international partners. With a background in aviation training, business development, and community leadership, Dana has been instrumental in expanding UND’s role as a global hub for aviation and unmanned systems education. Under his leadership, the Foundation supports flight training, UAS development, curriculum design, and partnerships that shape the future of aviation.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/dana-sande-b16b7215/

The UND Aerospace Foundation is a nonprofit organization created to support and expand the world-class aviation programs at the University of North Dakota. Established in 1985, the foundation helps UND operate at the speed of business by partnering with governments, airlines, and aerospace companies around the globe. From pilot and air traffic control training to curriculum development, unmanned aircraft systems, and advanced research, the foundation bridges education with industry needs. Its revenues are reinvested into UND’s aerospace program, providing cutting-edge facilities, maintaining part of the university’s training fleet, and ensuring affordable, high-quality education for future aviation leaders.

“Most people don’t know that the University of North Dakota had the first unmanned aircraft pilot degree program in the country.” – Dana Sande

“Our foundation was designed to help the University operate at the speed of business.” – Dana Sande

“We like to provide the best facilities for students—because it’s important for them to learn in an environment as nice as where they’ll ultimately work.” – Dana Sande

“There are more UND grads flying Predators worldwide than any group outside of the U.S. military.” – Dana Sande

In this episode of Hangar X Studios, host John Ramstead sits down with John Ibele, co-founder of Meadowlark Aircraft Manufacturing, to explore the future of American-made drones. With decades of experience in high-volume manufacturing at Seagate, Ibele shares how lessons from producing millions of disk drive components in Asia can be applied to building drones right here in the U.S. The conversation spans topics like design for manufacturing (DFM), the advantages of domestic production, the challenges of scaling drone manufacturing, and the ambitious vision behind Meadowlark’s flagship fixed-wing VTOL drone, the FH125 “Strix.”

This episode is a fascinating look at how North Dakota is emerging as a hub for aerospace innovation, and how entrepreneurs like Ibele are determined to strengthen America’s manufacturing resilience in the drone industry.

John Ibele is the co-founder of Meadowlark Aircraft Manufacturing, a Grand Forks, North Dakota-based company building custom and scalable drones for commercial applications. With a career rooted in high-volume manufacturing at Seagate Technology, John brings deep expertise in design for manufacturing (DFM), process optimization, and global supply chain operations. His vision for Meadowlark is to revitalize domestic drone production, leveraging American innovation, skilled labor, and North Dakota’s strong UAS ecosystem.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-ibele/

Meadowlark Aircraft Manufacturing is a North Dakota–based aerospace company dedicated to designing and building innovative, American-made drones. Founded by industry veterans with deep expertise in high-volume manufacturing, Meadowlark focuses on both custom solutions and scalable production to meet the growing demand for unmanned aerial systems. With flagship products like the FH125 “Strix,” a fixed-wing VTOL designed for endurance and versatility, Meadowlark aims to serve industries such as agriculture, wildlife management, perimeter security, and emergency response—all while strengthening domestic manufacturing capabilities.

India may be the world’s seventh-largest country with the largest population, but when it comes to helicopters, the numbers tell a surprising story—just 270 helicopters serve over 1.4 billion people. In this episode of Hangar X, host John Ramstead sits down with Air Marshal (Retd.) Anil Butola, President of the Rotary Wing Society of India (RWSI) and former Indian Air Force test pilot, to unpack the state of India’s helicopter and vertical lift industry.

From his 42-year career in the Indian Air Force to leading efforts to reform civil aviation regulations, Air Marshal Butola shares unique insights into India’s helicopter challenges, opportunities, and the emerging role of EVTOLs and advanced air mobility. This episode dives into the regulatory hurdles, infrastructure gaps, and the bold vision for India’s vertical flight future.

Whether you’re an aviation professional, policymaker, or simply curious about the next frontier in aerospace, this conversation delivers insider perspectives on the future of vertical lift in one of the world’s fastest-growing economies.

Air Marshal (Retd.) Anil Butola served over 42 years in the Indian Air Force, including roles as a fighter pilot, instructor, and test pilot. Rising to the rank of Air Marshal (equivalent to a U.S. Lieutenant General), he has been at the forefront of India’s aviation leadership. After retiring in 2020, he became the President of the Rotary Wing Society of India (RWSI), a nonprofit established in 1998 to represent and advance the helicopter industry in India. Under his leadership, RWSI advocates for regulatory reforms, industry growth, and the integration of new technologies such as EVTOLs and advanced air mobility.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/as-butola-31b96ab/?originalSubdomain=in

The Rotary Wing Society of India (RWSI), established in 1998, is a nonprofit professional body dedicated to the growth and advancement of the helicopter industry in India. It serves as a vital link between operators, regulators, manufacturers, and aviation professionals, working to address industry challenges, influence policy, and promote safe and efficient helicopter operations. With members ranging from pilots and engineers to industry leaders, RWSI plays a key role in driving innovation, supporting training initiatives, and advocating for greater use of helicopters in sectors such as offshore operations, emergency medical services, law enforcement, and disaster relief.

 In this episode of Hangar X Studios, host John Ramstead sits down with Tom Kading, entrepreneur, engineer, and founder of Fargo Patent Law, to discuss how aerospace innovators can protect and leverage their intellectual property. From patents and trade secrets to brand strategy and investor readiness, Tom shares practical advice for startups and established companies navigating the rapidly growing UAS and aerospace markets. Whether you’re building drones, VTOLs, or next-gen software, this conversation will help you rethink IP not just as paperwork, but as a core business asset.

Tom Kading is an entrepreneur, engineer, and patent attorney with a passion for helping innovative businesses protect and leverage their intellectual property. As founder of Fargo Patent Law, Tom advises startups and established aerospace companies on strategies that go beyond paperwork—building real business value through patents, trade secrets, contracts, and branding. With offices in Grand Forks, Fargo, and Colorado Springs, Tom and his team are deeply engaged in the rapidly evolving aerospace and UAS ecosystem.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomas-kading-1870b727/

About Fargo Patent Law

Fargo Patent Law is a boutique intellectual property law firm dedicated to helping innovators protect and maximize the value of their ideas. Founded by entrepreneur and patent attorney Tom Kading, the firm combines legal expertise with real-world business insight to craft IP strategies that fuel growth. With offices in Grand Forks, Fargo, and Colorado Springs, Fargo Patent Law serves startups and established companies nationwide—particularly in the fast-growing aerospace and UAS industries—by providing guidance on patents, trademarks, trade secrets, and contracts.

In this inspiring episode of Hangar X Studios, host John Ramstead sits down with aviation advocate Cynthia Glenn live at VertiCon. Together, they tackle one of the industry’s most pressing challenges: how to bring more women into aviation. Cynthia shares her personal journey into flying, the hurdles she faced, and the mentors who encouraged her to pursue her dream. She also highlights the power of community, mentorship, and personal invitation in breaking down barriers and inspiring the next generation of women pilots.

Listeners will discover how organizations like the 99s and Women in Aviation International are shaping opportunities for women, why relational outreach matters, and how individual action can make a massive difference in creating diversity and inclusion in the cockpit.

Cynthia Glenn is a passionate aviator, mentor, and advocate for women in aviation. After reigniting her dream of flying during the COVID era, she pursued drone certification, ground instructor credentials, and eventually her pilot’s license. Today, she owns and flies a Cessna 182 and is building innovative pathways for others to access aviation through her cooperative model. Cynthia is actively involved in organizations like the 99s and Women in Aviation International, writes for In Flight USA, and mentors aspiring female pilots.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/cynthia-glenn-202888118/ 

Women in Aviation International (WAI) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to encouraging and advancing women in all areas of aviation and aerospace. Founded in 1990, WAI provides resources, scholarships, mentorship, and networking opportunities to help women pursue and grow careers as pilots, engineers, technicians, air traffic controllers, astronauts, and industry leaders. With thousands of members worldwide, WAI hosts an annual conference that brings together professionals, students, and enthusiasts to celebrate achievements, share knowledge, and inspire the next generation of aviation pioneers.