Washington-headquartered magniX has appointed John Saabas as chairman of the board. He is deeply familiar with magniX, having recently served as a company advisor and chairman of its technical steering committee.

Saabas previously served as head of engineering and technology for Bombardier Transportation, where he led the company's global technology and product development activities. Prior to that, he was president of Pratt & Whitney Canada for a decade until 2019, gaining extensive leadership, engineering and operations expertise throughout his tenure.

"I am excited at taking on a bigger role at magniX at a critical stage, as we advance from product development to certification and commercialisation," he says. "The future of the aviation industry lies in delivering sustainable solutions. magniX not only pioneered the market for electric propulsion, but also carved out early leadership through advanced technology and innovation."

Saabas currently holds company and advisory board positions for several aerospace organisations and educational institutions. He earned a PhD in Aerodynamics from McGill University and a Master's and Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Waterloo. In 2013, he received the CEO Sustainable Development award from Quebec business publication Les Affaires.

"John's leadership in sustainability and deep experience in power plant technologies are a tremendous asset to magniX as the company commits itself to certification, an essential step to making electrified flight a reality," says outgoing chairman Dominique Spragg. "We have benefited from John's vision and expertise, and look forward to his leadership as chairman."

Spragg, who has served as chairman since November 2020, will remain an advisor to magniX.