Hangar X Studios

By John RamsteadLeisure Aviation

Hangar X Studios episodes

May 16, 2025Why Are Elon Musk & Kevin O'Leary Eyeing North Dakota?
In this episode of Hangar X Studios, host John Ramstead sits down with veteran radio personality and aerospace advocate Scott Hennen at the Hive in Grand Forks, North Dakota. Together, they explore the surprising rise of the region’s aerospace ecosystem—from the University of North Dakota’s forward-looking Center for Aerospace Sciences to Grand Sky’s innovation hub and the strategic synergies with Grand Forks Air Force Base. Scott shares his personal journey in media, the political leadership that’s fueled local growth, and why North Dakota may be poised to lead America’s next aerospace frontier.
Episode Highlights
A deep dive into Grand Forks’ transformation into a global aerospace testbed

How UND’s early investment in aviation education set the stage for Grand Sky

The crucial role of state leadership—Governors Hoeven and Burgum, Senators Cramer and Hoeven—in accelerating innovation

Private-public partnerships: from Northrop Grumman to Kevin O’Leary’s capital influx

The strategic importance of the Grand Forks Air Force Base and Space Force proximity

Scott’s personal reflections on a 40-year radio career and his favorite broadcast moments

Key Points with Time Stamps
[00:00:00] Scott on the “ingenuity” happening in Grand Forks and early nod to Kevin O’Leary’s role

[00:01:30] Scott recounts launching his first talk show in North Dakota in 1986

[00:03:00] The “Clifford Years” and founding of UND’s College of Aerospace Sciences

[00:04:04] UND’s Citation jet program as a visionary step toward global pilot training

[00:06:42] From UND foundation to nimble private-sector partnerships—how Grand Sky was born

[00:08:04] Stabilizing the Grand Forks Air Force Base and its evolution into the 319th Reconnaissance Wing headquarters

[00:10:44] Space Force’s independent status and its R&D synergy just north of Grand Forks

[00:12:31] Futurist outlook: why Grand Forks could outpace traditional hubs like California or Texas

[00:15:28] Scott reflects on his proudest broadcasting moment: 18 years as voice of UND hockey

Guest Bio
Scott Hennen is a pioneering radio talk-show host often dubbed “the Rush Limbaugh of the Midwest.” He began in broadcasting at age 12 and launched North Dakota’s first talk show in 1986. Over a 40-year career, Scott has covered politics, aerospace, and regional development—interviewing presidents, world leaders, and industry innovators. A passionate defender of American aerospace leadership, he’s a fixture in Grand Forks, championing the collaborative spirit that unites UND, Grand Sky, and the Air Force Base.
About Grand Forks:
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.
Notable Quotes
“All the right people are here. To get from here to there, I’m talking like Elon Musk—ingenuity is happening right here.” [00:00:00]
“A good idea has a fighting chance in North Dakota because of that access to the right people.” [00:03:53]
“It’s about we win, they lose—this is about beating China and keeping America in check.” [00:07:15]
“Grand Forks is so far ahead of the curve right now. I think it happens here first—be the beta.” [00:14:58]
“My proudest moment? Eighteen years behind the microphone as the voice of UND hockey at Ralph Englestad.” [00:16:43]
18 min
May 15, 20254,500 Lives Saved in 3 Years The Saudi HEMS Story
In this episode of Hangar X Studios, host John Ramstead sits down with Arnaud Martinez, CEO of The Helicopter Company (THC), to explore how Saudi Arabia has become the epicenter for next-generation air mobility. From humble beginnings—four people, one helicopter, and a single base—THC has rocketed to a thousand employees, 70 aircraft, and 15 operational bases across 70% of the Kingdom in just six years. Arnaud shares the company’s unwavering focus on safety, discipline, and people, highlights their impressive emergency medical services achievements, and dives into how Saudi Vision 2030 is accelerating the adoption of cutting-edge technologies like eVTOL. This conversation offers a front-row seat to one of the fastest-growing operators in the Middle East and a glimpse into the future of vertical flight.
Episode Highlights
A Unique Growth Story: How THC scaled from one helicopter to a fleet that’s adding 26 aircraft this year.

People as the Core Product: The challenges and rewards of onboarding 30 new employees every month across 51 nationalities.

Life-Saving Impact: The medical segment’s achievements—4,500 lives saved in three years with a zero-death record.

Saudi Vision 2030 Alignment: Why “stand up and run” is more than a motto—it's a national mandate for innovation.

eVTOL Readiness: Firsthand insights from Arnaud’s visit to U.S. eVTOL developers and why Saudi Arabia is the perfect testing ground.

Key Points
00:00:03 – Arnaud paints Saudi Arabia as the ultimate launchpad for “crazy” new technology ideas.

00:01:22 – John introduces Hangar X Studios and today’s guest, Arnaud Martinez.

00:01:28 – The Helicopter Company’s founding mission: air mobility support for Neom and the Red Sea Giga-projects.

00:02:31 – Expansion into tourism, VIP transport, sports, filming, and emergency medical services.

00:03:02 – Rapid growth metrics: onboarding 15–20 aircraft and 30 people per month.

00:03:51 – Scaling from 4 to 1,000 employees, 1 to 70+ aircraft, and 1 to 15 bases covering 70% of Saudi Arabia.

00:05:09 – Embedding the company’s mission within the broader Saudi Vision 2030.

00:06:25 – Why people—pilots, technicians, and support staff—are THC’s “real product.”

00:07:16 – The critical importance of Helicopter Emergency Medical Services (HEMS) in Saudi Arabia.

00:08:54 – Milestone: 4,500 lives saved in three years with zero fatalities on missions.

00:11:12 – Fleet strategy: balancing new deliveries with retirements to maintain mission-ready equipment.

00:12:00 – Targeting 90% geographic coverage with additional bases and aircraft within 18 months.

00:14:44 – The synergy between THC’s roadmap and Saudi Vision 2030’s goals for rapid innovation.

00:15:44 – Arnaud’s on-the-ground perspective from U.S. eVTOL developers and the path to certification.

Guest Bio
Arnaud Martinez is the Chief Executive Officer of The Helicopter Company (THC), a wholly sovereign-fund-owned operator based in Saudi Arabia. A former fighter pilot and board member, Arnaud has led THC through exponential growth, transforming it from a four-person startup with one helicopter into a 1,000-strong workforce operating 70 aircraft from 15 bases. Under his leadership, THC’s Emergency Medical Services division has saved 4,500 lives in three years with a flawless safety record. Passionate about people development and technological innovation, Arnaud is pioneering the integration of eVTOL platforms into Saudi Arabia’s air mobility ecosystem in alignment with Vision 2030.
About The Helicopter Company (THC)
Founded six years ago to support Saudi Arabia’s landmark Giga-projects, The Helicopter Company (THC) has grown from a four-person startup with one aircraft into a leading air-mobility operator with over 1,000 employees of 51 nationalities and a 70-strong fleet across 15 bases covering 70% of the Kingdom. THC offers everything from luxury tourism and VIP transport to aerial filming, oil-and-gas inspections, and a world-class Emergency Medical Services division that has saved more than 4,500 lives in three years with a flawless safety record. Grounded in rigorous safety protocols, real-time performance monitoring, and a “stand up and run” ethos in support of Saudi Vision 2030, THC is now pioneering eVTOL integration—positioning Saudi Arabia as the premier testbed for next-generation urban air mobility.
Notable Quotes
“All planets are aligned for coming to Saudi Arabia, investing in Saudi Arabia with any crazy idea that serves the purpose.” — Arnaud Martinez (00:00:03)
“When you save a life, you save the life, but you impact the life of the people around them.” — Arnaud Martinez (00:07:16)
“Saudi Arabia is the land to come and test the platforms and invest in local content and moving the production there.” — Arnaud Martinez (00:18:48)
20 min
May 13, 2025How VerdeGo Aero is Making Electric Flight a Reality?
In this episode of HangarX Studios, host Jon Ramstead sits down with Eric Bartsch, CEO and co-founder of VerdeGo Aero, to explore the realities and future of electric propulsion in aviation. Eric shares how VerdeGo pivoted from designing its own aircraft to focusing on hybrid-electric powerplants, discusses the limitations of battery-only systems, and explains why hybrid architectures are poised to be a permanent fixture in both civilian and military aerospace. From technical deep dives into series vs. parallel hybrids to real-world lessons in EMI and thermal management, this conversation uncovers what it takes to certify, build, and operate the next generation of electrified aircraft.
Episode Highlights
Why batteries alone won’t cut it: Understanding energy density challenges and reserve requirements for aviation.

The hybrid advantage: How VerdeGo’s VH4T powerplant delivers 400 kW (≈550 hp) in a 550 lb package, unlocking hundreds of miles of range.

Series vs. parallel hybrids: Key architectural choices and their applications in VTOL, fixed-wing, and rotorcraft.

Regulatory pathways: Collaborating with the FAA to meet both certification and operational energy-reserve standards.

Real-world engineering hurdles: Tackling EMI, thermal management, and control integration.

Looking ahead: The enduring role of hybrids in civilian and military aviation and emerging use cases.

Key Points with Time Stamps
00:00 – 00:30: Importance of predictable battery performance over a pack’s lifetime.

01:41 – 02:29: VerdeGo’s founding in 2017 and the industry “aha” that electric motors—not batteries—are the transformative core.

02:29 – 03:32: The shift from one- or two-engine designs to multi-point electric propulsion for enhanced control and safety.

06:26 – 07:44: Simplicity of electric power distribution vs. mechanical drivetrains like the V-22’s.

09:46 – 11:00: Choosing turbine and jet-fuel diesel engines optimized for hybridization.

15:39 – 17:17: Market segments ideal for VerdeGo’s 400 kW powerplant: urban air mobility, cargo drones, regional fixed-wing.

18:16 – 19:06: Weight trade-offs: 2,000 lb of batteries yields 30–50 mi range vs. hybrid enabling 8–10× range.

23:13 – 24:16: Pure battery isn’t viable for high-value missions—Moore’s Law limits and decades-long timeframe for breakthroughs.

27:42 – 30:18: FAA collaboration on certification and operational reserve requirements, and how hybrids address those.

32:30 – 35:16: Battery replacement costs, derating strategies, and the hidden OPEX hurdles of battery-electric aviation.

38:31 – 40:20: Engineering challenges in EMI and thermal management for high-power electric and hybrid systems.

43:48 – 46:05: Hybrid as a permanent landscape shift—civilian and military adoption, runway-independent platforms.

Guest Bio
Eric Bartsch is co-founder and CEO of VerdeGo Aero, established in 2017 to pioneer hybrid-electric propulsion for aircraft and drones. With decades of aerospace experience, Eric recognized early that electric motors and power distribution—not batteries—would redefine aviation. Under his leadership, VerdeGo’s VH4T hybrid powerplant delivers 400 kW continuous electric output in a compact package, optimizing performance across urban air mobility, cargo drones, and regional air mobility. Eric’s expertise spans engine selection, system integration, FAA certification, and operational cost analysis.
About VerdeGo Aero
VerdeGo Aero is a trailblazing aerospace technology company founded in 2017 with the mission of revolutionizing propulsion for electric and hybrid-electric aircraft. By focusing on the upstream powerplant—combining advanced turbine or diesel-cycle engines optimized for jet fuel with high-efficiency electric generators—VerdeGo delivers compact, reliable hybrid systems that produce up to 400 kW (≈550 hp) in just 550 lb. Their modular approach enables a broad range of applications, from urban air mobility and cargo drones to regional fixed-wing and military platforms, offering dramatic improvements in range, speed, and payload over battery-only designs. Committed to safety, performance, and operational practicality, VerdeGo works closely with regulators to certify its powerplants and empower aircraft manufacturers to build the next generation of electrified flight.
Notable Quotes
“The transformative technology that makes electric flight interesting isn’t batteries—it’s electric motors.”
— Eric Bartsch [00:02:29]
“Batteries don’t get any lighter whether they’re full or empty. Fuel is more than 20× more energy dense than the best batteries on the market.”
— Eric Bartsch [00:19:07]
“Hybridization is kind of a safety valve that allows a lot of those aircraft to meet both certification and operational requirements.”
— Eric Bartsch [29:57]
“We’re talking decades before there’s parity between battery-electric weights and performance versus hybrid or conventional propulsion.”
— Eric Bartsch [43:21]
50 min
May 09, 2025The Future of Air Force ISR Operations – RQ-4 Global Hawk, BACN, and HF Systems
Join host John Ramstead at Hangar X Studios, broadcasting from Grand Forks, North Dakota, as he speaks with Colonel Tim Monroe, commanding officer of the 319th Reconnaissance Wing. Col Monroe provides an in-depth look at the strategic significance of the 319th Wing, highlighting its global missions, including high-altitude surveillance with the RQ4 Global Hawk, advanced battlefield communications with the E11 BACN, and the resurgence of the High-Frequency Global Communication System (HFGCS). The conversation dives into innovative military and civilian partnerships, the critical role of the Grand Forks community, and the evolving challenges and opportunities within unmanned aerial systems (UAS).
Episode Highlights:
Understanding the diverse missions and global reach of the 319th Reconnaissance Wing.
Exploring advanced aerospace technologies and strategic assets like the Global Hawk and E11 BACN.
The strategic revival of high-frequency communications in national defense.
Insights into Grand Sky's unique role as a civilian-military partnership on a military installation.
The critical threat of small drones and collaborative defense solutions.
The exceptional partnership between Grand Forks Air Force Base and the local community.
Key Points with Timestamps:
(00:01:44) Introduction to the complex, global mission of the 319th Reconnaissance Wing.
(00:02:39) Col Monroe details the capabilities of the RQ4 Global Hawk drone.
(00:03:37) The record-setting unrefueled flight achievement by the RQ4.
(00:04:45) Overview of the E11 BACN aircraft, inspired by lessons from "Lone Survivor."
(00:06:30) Revival and strategic importance of high-frequency global communications.
(00:08:39) Discussion about Customs and Border Protection's drone operations at Grand Forks.
(00:09:43) Insight into General Atomics' MQ9B Sky Guardian capabilities for international partners.
(00:12:04) Unique civilian-military partnerships fostered by Grand Sky.
(00:22:15) Col Monroe addresses the domestic threat posed by small drone systems.
(00:24:36) Importance of collaborative stakeholder involvement to enhance security and innovation.
(00:27:36) Col Monroe's reflections on leadership, military service, and community support.
Guest Bio
Colonel Tim Monroe currently commands the 319th Reconnaissance Wing at Grand Forks Air Force Base. A distinguished Air Force officer and former F-15 pilot, Col Monroe has extensive experience in aviation leadership, strategic reconnaissance, and unmanned systems. Under his leadership, the 319th Wing plays a pivotal role in global intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions, operating high-value assets such as the RQ4 Global Hawk and E11 BACN aircraft. His emphasis on collaboration, innovation, and community engagement underscores his visionary approach to modern military leadership.
About Grand Forks:
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.
Notable Quotes:
"Our mission literally wraps around the globe." – Col Tim Monroe
"The amazing part about the partnership with the city is how well we work together." – Col Tim Monroe
"The nation is in really good hands with our nation's military." – Col Tim Monroe
"This community is really good about saying thank you for your service... and thank you for my freedom." – Col Tim Monroe
"I challenge somebody to come up with a better example of how well things work together in a place like Grand Forks, North Dakota." – Col Tim Monroe
31 min
May 08, 2025This Jet Design Could Change Commercial Aviation Forever | Dean Donovan
Summary
In this episode of Hangar X Studios, host John Ramstead sits down with Dean Donovan, Co‑Founder and Managing Partner at Diamond Stream Partners, to explore the transformative forces reshaping aerospace today. From revolutionary blended wing body designs and hybrid‑electric propulsion to autonomy, advanced air mobility (AAM), eVTOL developments, and the rise of cargo drones, Dean unpacks the technologies, business models, certification challenges, and market dynamics driving aviation’s next frontier. Whether you’re curious about how cost‑per‑seat‑mile economics enable air‑car substitutions or the promise of beyond‑visual‑line‑of‑sight drone operations, this deep dive offers expert insights and real‑world examples that reveal where aerospace is headed in 2025 and beyond.
Episode Highlights
Blended Wing Body Aircraft: Why a 30–50% fuel efficiency gain is a game changer for commercial aviation.

Hybrid‑Electric Propulsion: How retrofits and new airframes like the TriFan leverage electric boost to cut costs, emissions, and maintenance.

Autonomy Under 500 Miles: The untapped value of right‑sized, unmanned aircraft for missions today flown by over‑sized planes.

Advanced Air Mobility (AAM): Technical capabilities, payload‑range trade‑offs, and the critical role of carrier networks for eVTOL success.

Cost‑Per‑Seat‑Mile Economics: Hitting the 65¢ mark to outcompete cars and stimulate regional aviation demand.

Mid‑Mile Cargo Drones: How containerized UAVs like Elroy Air and Swiss Drones tackle high‑value, time‑sensitive freight.

Disrupting a Trillion‑Dollar Industry: Jet Zero’s potential to upend traditional aircraft markets with blended wing body designs.

2025 Outlook: Certification milestones, hybrid aircraft launches, and a surge in BVLOS drone operations.

Key Points with Timestamps
00:02:48 – Blended Wing Body Benefits: Lift‑to‑drag improvements, payload range, and passenger experience enhancements.

00:05:32 – Hybrid‑Electric Propulsion: Retrofitting existing fleets and powering new designs to slash cost per seat‑mile.

00:06:50 – Autonomous Missions: Replacing nine‑seat Cessna Caravans for pipeline inspections with 200‑lb unmanned systems.

00:07:33 – AAM & eVTOL Challenges: Payload‑range limits, pivot toward hybrid powertrains, and the necessity of carrier network economics.

00:11:02 – Certification Strategies: Navigating FAA Part 33 approvals for hybrid systems with mechanical fallbacks.

00:16:21 – Extended TBOs: Electric take‑off boosts reduce engine cycles, lowering maintenance downtime and costs.

00:19:10 – Cost Thresholds: Reaching 65¢/seat‑mile to rival ground vehicles and unlock regional aviation growth.

00:22:57 – Cargo Drone Use Cases: Elroy Air’s 300–400 mi containerized flights and Swiss Drones’ inspection/freight ops.

00:29:01 – Jet Zero Spotlight: A 30‑year vision to commercialize blended wing body aircraft and disrupt a multi‑trillion‑dollar ecosystem.

00:40:00 – Looking Ahead: 2025 as a pivotal year for eVTOL certification, hybrid aircraft rollouts, and BVLOS drone acceleration.

Guest Bio
Dean Donovan is Co‑Founder and Managing Partner at Diamond Stream Partners, where he leads investments in aviation and aerospace technologies, including mid‑mile freight, hybrid and electric propulsion, unmanned systems, and fleet optimization. Dean co‑founded Valeria, now Mexico’s largest airline, and previously headed Bain & Company’s Aviation Practice and Bain Africa. His multidisciplinary background spans analytics, finance, marketing, and operations, giving him a unique perspective on both the technical innovations and business transformations shaping the industry.
Notable Quotes
“Blended wing body aircraft can carry more payload further for 30 to 50% less fuel—solving both the climate and efficiency problems.”
— Dean Donovan (00:02:48)
“If you cut costs in half, you could double or triple the size of the regional aviation market—stimulating massive demand.”
— Dean Donovan (00:19:10)
“NASA and other entities poured over a billion dollars of research into these designs before this company got started—you’re standing on the shoulders of giants.”
— Dean Donovan (00:30:40)
“The big narrative for 2025 is beyond‑visual‑line‑sight drone operations—that’s going to accelerate drone business models like nothing else.”
— Dean Donovan (00:40:00)
44 min
May 06, 2025Even a General Can Do It: Auto-Rotations Made Easy in the Bell 505
Episode Summary:
In this captivating episode of Hangar X, host John Ramstead welcomes two distinguished aviation experts, Chief Warrant Officer (Ret.) Matthew Dorram and Brigadier General (Ret.) John E. Novalis, from Bell Helicopters. They dive deep into the future of helicopter pilot training, specifically discussing the innovative "Flight School Next" initiative and the role of the Bell 505 helicopter. The guests passionately discuss returning to fundamental flying skills, enhancing pilot safety, and reshaping training practices to equip Army aviators for modern and future combat environments. Discover how intentional "failure training" and cutting-edge aircraft design promise to revolutionize pilot readiness and mission effectiveness.
Episode Highlights:
Revolutionizing Army aviation training with Flight School Next.
Importance of intentional failure and emergency procedures training.
Advantages of the Bell 505 helicopter for foundational skills development.
Challenges facing current Army pilot training programs.
The future mission landscape for Army aviation.
Key Points with Time Stamps:
[00:01:46] Introduction to guests Matthew Dorram and John E. Novalis
[00:04:35] Discussion on intentional failure training in helicopter pilot instruction
[00:07:28] Importance of foundational piloting skills over reliance on automation
[00:09:05] Current Army training challenges and safety issues
[00:13:47] Overview of Flight School Next and contractor-based training solutions
[00:17:44] Benefits of contractor-owned, contractor-operated (COCO) training model
[00:21:56] Bell's unique position and experience in pilot training
[00:30:22] Why the Bell 505 is optimal for modern pilot training
[00:41:26] Adapting training for future mission environments (Pacific theater)
[00:45:28] Passion for revitalizing Army aviation through improved training
Guest Bios:
Matthew Dorram
Chief Warrant Officer (Ret.) Matthew Dorram is the lead for the Bell flight school initiative, with over 29 years of Army Aviation experience and 7,000 flight hours. He specializes in high-altitude training, developed the HATS program, and is rated in six Army airframes. A former 747 pilot and instructor, Dorram brings extensive expertise in pilot training and organizational performance.
John E. Novalis
Brigadier General (Ret.) John E. Novalis serves as the strategic director at Bell for flight school initiatives. With 500 combat flight hours as an Apache pilot and significant strategic experience in joint NATO operations, Novalis is deeply committed to improving pilot proficiency, readiness, and safety. His military background and leadership roles provide valuable insight into the future of Army aviation.
About Bell Flight:
Bell Flight is a global aerospace leader with a storied history of aviation innovation spanning more than eight decades. Known for pioneering advanced helicopter and vertical lift technologies, Bell continues to redefine air mobility solutions for both military and commercial sectors. With an emphasis on safety, reliability, and efficiency, Bell Flight provides cutting-edge aircraft, comprehensive training solutions, and dedicated support to operators worldwide, ensuring mission readiness and operational excellence.
Notable Quotes:
"We learned to fly normal operations by way of training through emergency procedures." – Matthew Dorram
"When something goes bad, you must know how to fly the aircraft confidently to get it safely to the ground." – John E. Novalis
"The Bell 505 helicopter makes auto rotations so easy even a general can do it." – Matthew Dorram
"We want to give the Army aviators training we would want ourselves—or for our sons." – John E. Novalis
"Our goal is creating confident pilots who know they'll win when they go into combat." – John E. Novalis
51 min
May 02, 2025 UAS, Manufacturing, and Momentum: Inside Grand Forks' Economic Transformation
(TIMESTAMPS in description below) ~ In this episode of Hangar X, Brandon Bochenski, Mayor of Grand Forks, North Dakota, shares how he’s turning this Midwest city into one of America’s most promising hubs for UAS innovation, advanced manufacturing, and defense-tech growth.
From attracting major defense contractors to scaling local startups, Brandon reveals the strategy behind Grand Forks’ transformation—and why it’s now a low-risk, high-upside destination for investors, entrepreneurs, and aerospace pioneers.
BRANDON BOCHENSKI LINKS:
/ brandon-bochenski-442297283
/ bochenskibrandon
FOLLOW HANGAR X STUDIOS:
Instagram: / hangarxstudios
Facebook: / hangarxstudios
LinkedIN: / hangarxstudios
X: https://x.com/hangarxstudios
LISTEN TO HANGAR X PODCAST:
Apple Podcasts▶https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...
Spotify▶https://open.spotify.com/show/3rOII1W...
TIMESTAMPS
00:00 – "We’ve de-risked the story for you — bring your dollars here."
01:44 – Brandon’s journey: From NHL pro to mayor with a mission
04:12 – How he unseated a 20-year incumbent with vision and energy
05:46 – Grand Forks’ dual strategy: agriculture + tech innovation
06:22 – 600–800 new high-paying jobs coming via Grand Sky in 5 years
08:20 – Why Grand Forks is perfectly positioned for UAS innovation
09:32 – Building a full aerospace ecosystem—from prototyping to mentorship
10:20 – Small companies now winning defense contracts—how the game has changed
11:12 – Access to venture capital and manufacturing support in Grand Forks
15:59 – “We’ve got all the pieces—your investment will only grow here.
17 min
May 01, 2025 FAA Mandates SMS by 2027 — Here's What You Need to Know | Zahara Oubre
(TIMESTAMPS in description below) ~ FAA SMS compliance is now mandatory for Part 135 operators—are you ready? With risk-based decision making, cross-platform data integration, and insurance incentives, safety just got smarter (and more urgent).
Zahara Oubre, Director of Aviation Safety Programs at mba Aviation, joins us live at Verticon 2025 to unpack what the new FAA SMS mandate really means—and how Jumpseat SMS is helping operators of all sizes not just comply, but lead. From real-time risk dashboards to how you might save 5% on premiums, this episode dives deep into what next-gen aviation safety looks like.
*ZAHARA OUBRE'S LINKS:*
https://www.linkedin.com/in/zahara-oubre-5ba9a433/
*mba AVIATION’s LINKS:*
https://www.linkedin.com/company/mba-aviation/
https://x.com/mba_aviation
*FOLLOW HANGAR X STUDIOS:*
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hangarxstudios
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hangarxstudios
LinkedIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hangarxstudios
X: https://x.com/hangarxstudios
*LISTEN TO HANGAR X PODCAST:*
Apple Podcasts▶https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hangarx-studios/id1790136775
Spotify▶https://open.spotify.com/show/3rOII1WFicQEgcsLvt1p0Q?si=4bafbae966364f26
IF YOU MISSED WATCHING THESE… YOU’RE ALREADY BEHIND ON WHAT’S NEXT IN AEROSPACE
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=deb-xzvzxpw&t=13s
https://youtu.be/O1tIF0wodVc?si=hVJpJFOrJa2nYHJ8
https://youtu.be/O_2sWqkci78?si=1--2xAtiIOEjT36m
https://youtu.be/Wpm4Wx2pOUI?si=YxKEI1mlB8h-DEnF
https://youtu.be/Cf597pyBeZc?si=YUHRot2yu5Cts_le
https://youtu.be/zy7u-_RAC6Y?si=1daP7Om-byOMrWbz
TIMESTAMPS
00:00 – Why real-time safety data matters
01:40 – Meet Zahara Oubre & MBA Aero
02:30 – What is Jumpseat SMS & why it was built
03:50 – FAA SMS mandate for 135 operators (2027 deadline)
05:00 – Risk dashboards, data insights & performance indicators
06:20 – How to spot safety trends and prevent mishaps
07:50 – Scalable across 91, 121 & 135 + ICAO maturity levels
08:45 – Can SMS help lower insurance premiums?
09:30 – Integrations, API access & real-time reporting
10:45 – Final thoughts: safety as culture, not just compliance
*CREDITS:*
Host: John Ramstead
Follow the host: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnramstead/
12 min
April 24, 2025 Inside Metro Aviation’s Mission to Save Lives
(TIMESTAMPS in description below) ~ In this episode of HangarX, we sit down with Kenny Morrow, Chief Operating Officer of Metro Aviation, live from Verticon 2025.
Kenny shares how Metro combines scale, innovation, and a family-run ethos to deliver lifesaving aviation every day. From partnerships with Beta, AW09, and Airbus to Metro University and employee-first healthcare, this conversation reveals the business, culture, and leadership behind the scenes of America’s largest air medical operator.
*KENNY MORROW'S LINKS*
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kenneth-morrow-58116443/
*METRO AVIATION'S LINKS*
Metro Aviation: https://www.metroaviation.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/metroaviation/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MetroAviation/
LinkedIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/metro-aviation-inc./
X: https://x.com/MetroAviation
*FOLLOW HANGAR X STUDIOS:*
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hangarxstudios
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hangarxstudios
LinkedIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hangarxstudios
X: https://x.com/hangarxstudios
*LISTEN TO HANGAR X PODCAST:*
Apple Podcasts▶https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hangarx-studios/id1790136775
Spotify▶https://open.spotify.com/show/3rOII1WFicQEgcsLvt1p0Q?si=4bafbae966364f26
IF YOU MISSED WATCHING THESE… YOU’RE ALREADY BEHIND ON WHAT’S NEXT IN AEROSPACE
https://youtu.be/qX1xr6toNxs
https://youtu.be/O1tIF0wodVc?si=hVJpJFOrJa2nYHJ8
https://youtu.be/O_2sWqkci78?si=1--2xAtiIOEjT36m
https://youtu.be/Wpm4Wx2pOUI?si=YxKEI1mlB8h-DEnF
https://youtu.be/Cf597pyBeZc?si=YUHRot2yu5Cts_le
https://youtu.be/zy7u-_RAC6Y?si=1daP7Om-byOMrWbz
TIMESTAMPS
00:00 – A life saved by Metro Aviation
01:20 – Metro’s mission & structure explained
02:30 – Aircraft completions & green airframes
04:00 – 175 aircraft, 42 programs: how they manage scale
05:30 – Site managers, regional structure, and team culture
06:20 – What is Metro University? Growing leaders from within
07:50 – Healthcare, finance, and employee-first values
09:00 – The future of air ambulance: Beta, AW09, and H145
11:00 – Investing in the next generation of pilots
12:10 – Final thoughts: flying forward with purpose
Host: John Ramstead
Follow the host: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnramstead/
12 min
April 17, 2025 From Heliports to Vertiports: Five-Alpha’s Blueprint
In this fascinating episode of Hangar X, John Ramstead sits down with Rex Alexander, a leading expert in aviation infrastructure, to discuss the future of electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft (eVTOLs) and vertiports. Rex shares insights from his extensive aviation background, highlighting crucial considerations in vertiport design, regulatory challenges, safety protocols, and infrastructure needs. Whether you’re an aviation enthusiast or a professional in aerospace, this episode is a comprehensive guide to understanding the complexities and exciting developments shaping advanced air mobility.
54 min

About Hangar X Studios

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Hangar X Studios is all about innovation in the aerospace industry. The show is a joint venture between Innovation4Alpha and XTI Aerospace. Episodes will feature pilots, aviation leaders, business…

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Hangar X Studios

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About Hangar X Studios