Hangar X Studios

In this compelling live episode of Hangar X Studios, recorded at Verticon, host John Ramstead welcomes veteran aviation advocate and media expert Vincent Mickens. With decades of experience in aviation broadcasting, safety advocacy, and public relations, Mickens shares deep insights into the evolution of safety management systems (SMS), the power of digital tools in aviation safety, and his passion for educating future generations about career paths in aerospace. From storytelling to strategic safety reform, this episode explores both the technical and human sides of aviation innovation.

Vincent Mickens is the founder of Private Air Media Group, a specialized aviation media and public relations consultancy. With a professional background spanning broadcasting, flight training, and aviation advocacy, Vincent has served with esteemed organizations such as AOPA and NBAA. A lifelong pilot and communications strategist, his mission is twofold: to advance safety standards in aviation through procedural and digital innovation, and to inspire the next generation to explore the vast career opportunities available in aviation and aerospace. He also hosts All Things Aviation & Aerospace, a career-focused podcast.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/vincemickens-privateairmedia-allthingsaviationandaerospace/

Private Air Media Group is a specialized aviation communications consultancy founded by Vincent Mickens. With a deep-rooted passion for aviation and decades of experience in broadcasting and industry advocacy, the firm offers tailored media, public relations, and strategic communication services exclusively for the aviation and aerospace sectors. Leveraging insider knowledge of general, commercial, and rotary aviation, Private Air Media Group helps clients craft impactful messaging, execute comprehensive campaigns, and elevate their presence across industry channels.

In this live recording from Verticon, host John Ramstead sits down with Thibault Baldivia, co-founder of Ascendance, a pioneering company in the hybrid-electric aviation space. Thibault shares his journey from working at Airbus on one of the world’s first electric aircraft to building the next generation of hybrid-electric VTOL aircraft at Ascendance. The discussion dives deep into the technical, environmental, and operational advantages of hybrid propulsion systems over fully electric and traditional aircraft, especially in real-world applications where infrastructure and range pose limitations.

You’ll also hear insights into Ascendance’s Atea aircraft and its Sterna propulsion system — how they're optimizing fuel efficiency by up to 80% compared to conventional rotorcraft, and why their mission targets existing helicopter markets rather than speculative air taxi concepts. This episode is a must-listen for anyone excited about the future of sustainable aviation and advanced air mobility.

Thibault Baldivia is the co-founder of Ascendance, a French aerospace company focused on building sustainable hybrid-electric aircraft. Prior to founding Ascendance, Thibault worked at Airbus, where he contributed to the development of the E-Fan, one of the world’s first all-electric aircraft. Thibault and his co-founders are now leading innovation in hybrid propulsion, developing the Atea VTOL aircraft and Sterna hybrid system to transform regional and urban air mobility without the need for new infrastructure. He brings deep expertise in electrical engineering, aircraft design, and aviation systems integration.

Ascendance is a pioneering French aerospace company developing next-generation hybrid-electric aircraft designed to make aviation cleaner, more efficient, and accessible. Founded by former Airbus engineers, the company is focused on real-world solutions like the Atea, a five-seat vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) aircraft powered by Sterna, their proprietary hybrid propulsion system. By combining electric power with sustainable aviation fuel, Ascendance enables significant reductions in fuel consumption and emissions without requiring new infrastructure, making it a practical choice for modern air mobility.

"We were really trailblazing the whole thing... electric brings a lot of benefits, but also comes with drawbacks that are still very hard to overcome."
– Thibault Baldivia

"We are resizing the turbine for cruise, and the extra power needed for takeoff comes from the battery — it’s a smart hybrid approach."
– Thibault Baldivia

"You don’t want to invest heavily in infrastructure to make this happen. That’s why hybrid is key."
– Thibault Baldivia

"We’re not trying to create a new market — we’re going after existing helicopter operators with a better, cleaner solution."
– Thibault Baldivia

"From a pilot's perspective, the system must be simple — throttle and go. Our tech handles the complexity behind the scenes."
– Thibault Baldivia

In this episode of Hangar X Studios, host John Ramstead welcomes Dave Merrill, the visionary co-founder of Elroy Air, to explore how a personal passion for photography and drones evolved into building one of the world’s largest and most innovative autonomous cargo aircraft. Merrill recounts the journey from idea to implementation of Elroy Air’s flagship vehicle, the Chaparral, a hybrid-electric VTOL drone capable of delivering hundreds of pounds of cargo over long distances — autonomously.

We unpack how the team navigated early skepticism, technical challenges, military collaborations, and humanitarian partnerships to turn Elroy Air into a $2 billion demand operation. From securing support from SHIELD Capital and the Defense Innovation Unit to designing autonomous logistics for both military and commercial customers, this episode is a deep dive into the future of aviation logistics.

Dave Merrill is the co-founder and Executive Chairman of Elroy Air, an aerospace startup pioneering autonomous VTOL cargo delivery. An engineer by training, Dave’s career spans research in hardware/software systems, consumer drone development, and now, cutting-edge logistics automation. His work with Elroy Air focuses on solving the "middle mile" logistics gap, delivering mission-critical cargo through the company’s hybrid-electric, autonomous Chaparral aircraft. Merrill has built a world-class team and raised significant capital, positioning Elroy Air as a dual-use defense and commercial logistics solution provider.

Elroy Air is an innovative aerospace company pioneering autonomous vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) cargo aircraft to revolutionize express logistics. Their flagship vehicle, the Chaparral, is a hybrid-electric drone designed to carry 300 pounds of cargo over 300 miles without a pilot onboard. By blending autonomy, hybrid propulsion, and modular cargo pods, Elroy Air aims to transform how goods are delivered in both commercial and defense sectors — enabling faster, safer, and more efficient transport to remote or high-risk areas.

“This is inevitable. But we can be the first to do it because of our backgrounds and the moment we’re in.” — Dave Merrill

“One of the old adages about robotics is they’re great for jobs that are dull, dirty, and dangerous. And military logistics is all three.” — Dave Merrill

“Batteries are behind liquid fuel in energy density. So we built a hybrid electric system — it was the only way to meet operational needs.” — Dave Merrill

“We’re not trying to replace helicopters. We’re trying to free them up to do what they do best.” — Dave Merrill

“The aircraft is the platform. The pod is the application.” — Dave Merrill

In this episode of Hangar X Studios, host John Ramstead sits down with aviation business and financial analyst Brian Foley live from Verticon. They dive into the evolving landscape of the EVTOL (electric vertical takeoff and landing) sector, discuss investor sentiment, infrastructure challenges, policy impacts, and the future of aerospace innovation. With decades of experience across Boeing, Falcon Jet, and his own consultancy, Brian delivers a candid, fact-driven analysis of what’s working in the aerospace space—and what isn’t. Whether you’re an innovator, investor, or aviation enthusiast, this episode offers invaluable insights into the dynamic and high-stakes world of next-generation flight.

Brian Foley is a seasoned aviation and financial analyst with a career spanning multiple sectors of the aerospace industry. He has worked with major players like Falcon Jet and Boeing, and now runs his own consultancy firm, Brian Foley Associates. A regular contributor to Forbes, Foley is known for his clear, fact-based perspectives on the aerospace market, including his deep dives into aviation investment trends, EVTOL startups, and business aviation economics. His insights are sought after by investors, executives, and innovators looking to navigate the complex aviation landscape.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/brifo/ 

BriFO, short for Brian Foley Associates, is a boutique aerospace consultancy founded by industry veteran Brian Foley. With decades of experience at leading aviation companies like Boeing and Dassault Falcon Jet, BriFO provides strategic insights and market intelligence to investors, startups, and established aerospace firms. Known for its rigorous analysis and straight-talking assessments, BriFO specializes in emerging aviation technologies such as EVTOL, business aviation trends, and aerospace investment strategies. The firm combines deep technical knowledge with financial acumen to help clients navigate the complex and evolving aerospace landscape with clarity and confidence.

“You can't sell a beta product in aviation. It actually has to be the alpha—FAA certified.”
— Brian Foley

“The EVTOL industry will be very nichy. Those that find their niche and exceed at it will succeed.”
— Brian Foley

“Aviation eats its young. New ideas get dismissed quickly—but EVTOLs will find their place.”
— Brian Foley

“With fewer players now, the survivors in the EVTOL space may actually have a better shot.”
— Brian Foley

In this riveting episode of Hangar X, host John Ramstead sits down with Mike Martin, Vice President of Training at Air Rescue Systems (ARS), live from Verticon. Mike shares his remarkable journey from ground medic to flight medic and his current role enhancing the training and operational safety of search and rescue missions. They discuss innovations by ARS and Vita, aimed at revolutionizing helicopter rescue operations to save more lives and improve safety standards across the industry. Mike provides insightful perspectives on training methodologies, operational preparedness, and leveraging diverse experiences to ensure every rescue is executed safely and efficiently.

Mike Martin is the Vice President of Training at Air Rescue Systems (ARS), bringing extensive experience from his service as a flight medic with the Utah National Guard. Specializing in medevac and helicopter hoist rescues, Mike is dedicated to enhancing operational safety and effectiveness through innovative training approaches. At ARS, he collaborates closely with the aerospace community to advance rescue methodologies and implement cutting-edge rescue technology to ensure mission success and crew safety.

Air Rescue Systems (ARS) has been at the forefront of helicopter rescue operations and training for over 25 years. Originally focused on providing search and rescue services in Oregon, ARS has evolved into a leading global provider of specialized training programs and advanced rescue equipment. ARS collaborates closely with operators and rescuers worldwide to continuously refine methods, enhance safety protocols, and develop innovative rescue technologies designed to save lives under the most challenging conditions.

 In this engaging episode of Hangar X Studios, host John Ramstead sits down with Brandon Robinson, CEO of Horizon Aircraft, during the Verticon event. Together, they explore the future of vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) technology and discuss Horizon's unique approach with their innovative hybrid-electric EVTOL aircraft, the Cavorite X7. Robinson explains why hybrid-electric propulsion provides superior operational versatility compared to purely electric aircraft, highlighting the practical advantages in range, speed, and payload for both commercial and military applications.

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Key Points with Timestamps:

Guest Bio:
Brandon Robinson is the CEO of Horizon Aircraft, an innovative aerospace company specializing in hybrid-electric vertical takeoff and landing (EVTOL) aircraft. As a former Canadian Hornet pilot with extensive aviation experience, Robinson brings practical insight and leadership to Horizon's mission to create operationally robust and commercially viable aircraft solutions.

About Horizon Aircraft: Horizon Aircraft is an aerospace innovator focused on developing advanced hybrid-electric vertical takeoff and landing (EVTOL) aircraft. Headquartered near Toronto, Canada, Horizon aims to deliver versatile, reliable, and cost-effective aviation solutions. The company's flagship project, the Cavorite X7, combines hybrid-electric propulsion with cutting-edge aerospace technology to enhance both civilian and military operations.

Notable Quotes:

Join host John Ramstead as he sits down with Fabi Riesen, the visionary founder of Loft Dynamics, live from Verticon. In this exciting conversation, they dive deep into how Loft Dynamics is revolutionizing helicopter pilot training through groundbreaking virtual reality (VR) simulator technology. Fabi shares the story behind the creation of their FAA and EASA-certified full-motion simulators, explaining how VR not only enhances training realism but significantly improves pilot safety, reduces training costs, and accelerates learning. Whether you're passionate about aviation, technology, or innovation, this episode provides a fascinating glimpse into the future of aerospace training.

Fabi Riesen is the innovative founder and CEO of Loft Dynamics. A seasoned engineer and passionate aviator since 1999, Fabi combined his technical expertise and love for aviation to develop revolutionary virtual reality simulators. Loft Dynamics, under Fabi’s leadership, has achieved FAA and EASA certification, making them a global leader in advanced helicopter training solutions. His forward-thinking vision continues to shape the future of aerospace training and safety.

Loft Dynamics is a pioneering aerospace technology company specializing in virtual reality flight simulation. Recognized globally for its innovative training solutions, Loft Dynamics' simulators are certified by both the FAA and EASA. The company is transforming helicopter pilot training with high-fidelity, full-motion VR simulators that offer unmatched realism, enhanced safety, and significant cost savings. Loft Dynamics continues to expand its capabilities into fixed-wing and eVTOL markets, ensuring pilots worldwide are equipped with cutting-edge tools for safer and more efficient flight operations.

In this episode of Hangar X Studios, host John Ramstead sits down with North Dakota State Senator Jeff Barta at the Hive in Grand Forks. They explore how state funding and public–private partnerships are driving the expansion of UAS (Uncrewed Aerial Systems) infrastructure across North Dakota—from the Northern Plains test site to the ambitious Rural Reach project. Senator Barta shares personal insights on how drone-enabled beyond visual line-of-sight (BVLOS) operations can revolutionize rural healthcare delivery, agriculture, and energy services, all while fostering economic development and innovation in the state.

Senator Jeff Barta represents North Dakota in the State Senate, where he champions commerce, industry, and infrastructure—particularly in aerospace. A lifelong North Dakota resident, Jeff brings firsthand experience as a two-time father to premature twins, inspiring his passion for drone-based medical delivery. He currently serves on the Commerce and Industry committees and will soon take on the role of SBIR/STTR director at the University of North Dakota’s Center for Innovation

Grand Forks, North Dakota, is a dynamic and growing community known for its strong economic opportunities, robust educational institutions, and strategic partnerships with defense and technology sectors. Home to the University of North Dakota and Grand Forks Air Force Base, the city has become a hub for innovation, particularly in Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS), agriculture, and manufacturing. With a stable political climate, skilled workforce, and supportive business environment, Grand Forks continues to attract investments and businesses looking to thrive in a community that balances growth with quality of life..

“We don’t want research to sit on the shelf—we want it out there improving the lives of our citizens.”
[00:00:00]

“We went from covering 3,600 square miles to 54,000 square miles with the Vantas network.”
[00:05:09]

“Beyond visual line of sight can get life-saving medicine to an infant in 25 minutes instead of over an hour by road.”
[00:08:44]

“Sometimes the researchers love their work but don’t want to pursue the business—our role is to connect those people.”
[00:18:38]

“UAS is not just a Grand Forks project; it’s a North Dakota, United States, and world project.”
[00:23:41]

In this week’s episode of Hangar X Studios, host John Ramstead sits down with Mark Monsma, Aviation Director at Fertitta Enterprises, live from VertiCon. Mark shares his journey from missionary kid in Africa captivated by small Piper aircraft to the cockpit of Gulfstream G650s and a Boeing 767. He delves into how Fertitta’s aviation division moves corporate executives, family members, and even the Houston Astros, and explores the critical role helicopters and emerging eVTOLs play in their operations. From helipad logistics in Houston to evaluating the Trifan 600 for future missions, Mark provides insider perspectives on managing a diverse fleet in today’s fast-evolving aerospace landscape.

Mark Monsma is the Aviation Director at Fertitta Enterprises, overseeing a diverse fleet that includes Gulfstream G650/G5 jets, a Boeing 767, and multiple helicopters. A missionary kid raised in Africa, Mark’s aviation passion began with Piper Apaches and Cherokees. He earned his BS in Aviation Technology from Laturnal University in 1988, cut his teeth flying King Airs for Martinola Gas, and has since orchestrated high-profile flights for corporate executives, sports teams like the Houston Astros, and Fortune 500 families. At VertiCon, he’s evaluating the next generation of eVTOLs to enhance Fertitta’s luxury air mobility offerings.

Fertitta Enterprises is a diversified, family-owned holding company led by entrepreneur Tilman J. Fertitta. With a portfolio spanning more than 600 upscale restaurants, eight gaming and entertainment properties, and professional sports franchises—including the Houston Rockets and partnerships with Major League Baseball teams—Fertitta Enterprises excels in hospitality, gaming, and live-event experiences. The company also maintains a sophisticated private aviation division, operating Gulfstream jets, Boeing 767s, and helicopters to seamlessly connect executives, family members, and high-profile clients across the globe.

“Flying a one-hour trip in a small aircraft instead of two days on dirt roads in Nigeria—that moment lit the fire in me to become a pilot.” (00:02:49)

“When you have kids on board, a 30-second rotor cooldown versus two minutes is the longest two minutes of your life.” (00:06:17)

“I could replace all my helicopters with two or three Trifan 600s—imagine flying off the top of a hotel or a yacht for trips under 500 nautical miles.” (00:08:39)

“High-net-worth clients need to see, touch, and ride the aircraft—they won’t invest without a physical demonstration.” (00:09:47)

“Exciting times ahead—we just need to keep pushing the envelope on performance to make eVTOLs practical for operations like ours.” (00:10:55)

In this episode of Hangar X Studios, host John Ramstead welcomes acclaimed aviation journalist Amy Gallagher live from Verticon. Amy shares her unique journey—from starring in an F-16 safety training video at age 10 to reporting on military and civilian rescue operations across 122 countries for AirMed & Rescue. Together, they explore the crucial distinction between training and learning, the power of asking “why,” and the importance of fostering a proficiency culture in aviation. Along the way, they recount personal losses, near-miss maintenance errors, and the sobering reality that cutting-edge technology alone can’t prevent accidents without transparent communication and accountability. Whether you’re a student pilot, instructor, or industry leader, Amy’s insights will challenge you to elevate safety standards and embrace honest dialogue.

Amy Gallagher is an internationally published journalist with over 18 years covering military and civilian aviation, rescue, and medical operations. She writes for AirMed & Rescue, reaching readers in 122 countries and 25,000 subscribers worldwide. A former certified teacher, Amy has taught grades 4–12 and tutored nursing students. Her deep family ties to aviation—from her father’s leadership on the F-16 and Apache programs to her son’s service as a Black Hawk pilot—fuel her passion for safety, transparency, and continuous learning in the skies.

AirMed & Rescue is the leading publication for the global air ambulance, search-and-rescue and special-missions community. Founded in 1999 and published by Voyageur Group in Bristol, it delivers up-to-the-minute news, in-depth features, industry debate and technical analysis across. From case studies of medevac missions to reviews of cutting-edge aircraft technologies, AirMed & Rescue remains the definitive resource for operators, clinicians and thought leaders dedicated to saving lives from the sky.