JetZero, a company pushing the boundaries of aviation innovation, has made a significant move by welcoming Steve Dickson to its Board of Advisors. Dickson, a highly respected figure in the aviation world, previously served as the 18th Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), a role he held from 2019 to 2021. His tenure at the FAA was marked by a commitment to safety and modernization, leading to a period of significant progress in the industry.
Dickson’s most notable achievement was his decisive role in recertifying the Boeing 737 MAX, an aircraft that had been grounded following two fatal crashes. He personally piloted the aircraft to ensure its safety and helped restore public confidence in the FAA. His leadership was also crucial in maintaining the smooth operation of the U.S. air traffic control system during the COVID-19 pandemic, a period of unprecedented disruption.
Beyond safety, Dickson spearheaded initiatives that propelled the U.S. into the future of aviation. He spearheaded policy advancements in commercial space, drone technology, and advanced air mobility sectors, recognizing the growing importance of these emerging fields.
JetZero, known for its innovative blended wing-body (BWB) aircraft design, is eager to leverage Dickson’s expertise as it prepares for a full-scale demonstrator flight in 2027. The BWB design promises significant improvements in fuel efficiency and performance, making it a potential game-changer for commercial aviation.
“Steve’s extensive experience in safety, training and certification will bring valuable knowledge to the Advisor team as we prepare for our full-scale demonstrator to fly in 2027,” said Tom O’Leary, co-founder and chief executive officer of JetZero. “The merits of a new airplane shape with an already-established Part 25 certification process and Part 121 operations are clear and will enable us to improve upon every aspect of flight. We are thrilled to welcome Steve to the team as we work through testing and set our sights on demonstration and certification.”
Dickson’s career has spanned both the military and commercial aviation sectors. Before joining the FAA, he served as Senior Vice President of Flight Operations at Delta Air Lines, where he oversaw global flight safety, pilot training, operational quality assurance, and regulatory compliance. He’s also a veteran of the U.S. Air Force, where he served as an F-15 fighter pilot.
“I am excited to work with the great team at JetZero to help bring this innovative design to reality for both commercial operations and military applications,” said Dickson. “The blended wing-body (BWB) design has the potential for unprecedented improvements in efficiency and performance. It will be a game-changer for the commercial aviation sector.”
With Dickson joining an esteemed Advisory Board, JetZero is poised for continued success as it works towards realizing its ambitious vision for the future of aviation. His expertise will be instrumental in ensuring the safe and efficient development of its BWB aircraft, setting the stage for a new era of air travel.
