US AAM developer Wisk Aero has appointed Catherine MacGowan as its new Asia Pacific region director.

In her new role, MacGowan will serve on the executive leadership team and oversee all operations in Australasia, as well as the expansion of the company's presence in the wider Asia Pacific region. She will also be responsible for overseeing key existing projects, including Wisk's airspace integration trial, a leading programme that will advance the broader AAM industry, and the company's social acceptance work in the region.

In addition to Wisk's US focus, the Australasia region remains a core element in its broader strategy and will play a key role in the company's growth and go-to-market efforts.

“We are excited to have Catherine join our team,” says CEO Gary Gysin. “Since Wisk's arrival in New Zealand, our work in this progressive part of the world has made a significant contribution to the development of our all-electric, self-flying air taxi. Catherine's strong leadership skills and her in-depth understanding of the aerospace environment will be of huge value to Wisk and our mission to make safe, everyday flight a reality.”

“It's a privilege to be joining Wisk, a leader in advanced air mobility that is pioneering an entirely new way to fly,” adds MacGowan. “Its commitment to safe, sustainable and accessible travel is something that really resonates with me, and I'm excited to be part of such a passionate and highly-skilled team.”

Previously MacGowan was a group captain in the Royal New Zealand Air Force and has held several leadership positions across the New Zealand Defence Force. She has also served in a number of senior leadership roles for the New Zealand Government.