The company stated that HAV USA will focus on partnerships with the US Government, aerospace companies, and commercial operators in passenger and cargo transport. This expansion is intended to strengthen HAV’s presence in North America and support the growing interest in Airlander from US industry and defence sectors.
“Establishing a presence in the United States marks a new chapter in our international journey,” said Tom Grundy, CEO of Hybrid Air Vehicles. “We’re excited to bring our vision to new audiences and forge deeper partnerships across borders.”
John Schumacher has been appointed President of HAV USA and will lead the American operations. Schumacher brings extensive experience in aerospace and government, including 16 years at NASA and senior roles advancing US space and missile programmes.
“It’s a great honour to lead HAV USA,” said Schumacher. “Airlander brings to the United States an aircraft whose roots and future are British and American – it embodies an unsurpassed combination of trans-Atlantic aerospace innovation. Airlander will provide capabilities vital to US national security and commerce. Exciting days lie ahead!”
HAV highlighted that this strategic expansion enables closer collaboration with US partners in national security, aerospace, and disaster response. The new subsidiary will also help facilitate cooperative activities with US companies and government agencies.
The company is in the final planning stages for the production of Airlander 10, its first commercial aircraft. Airlander 10 can carry over 100 passengers, a 10-ton payload, or be configured for surveillance, communications, and reconnaissance missions.
With the ability to remain airborne for up to five days and operate from unprepared surfaces, the aircraft offers flexibility for a wide range of applications. HAV also noted that future larger Airlander variants could carry up to 200 tons, making them ideal for logistics support in remote or disaster-affected regions.
