ZeroAvia's founder and chief executive officer Val Miftakhov has stepped down as CEO, effective 26 May, to pursue new opportunities. Miftakhov will remain on the company's board of directors, where he will continue to support ZeroAvia's mission and long-term strategy.

“Building ZeroAvia from an idea into a company at the forefront of sustainable aviation has been the privilege of a lifetime,” he states. “I am incredibly proud of what this team has accomplished, and I remain fully committed to ZeroAvia's success. I look forward to continuing to contribute as a member of the board as the company enters its next chapter.”

Christine Ourmieres-Widener, executive chair of the board, who has been overseeing the company's day-to-day operations in recent months, will continue in her operational leadership role whilst the board conducts a search for a permanent CEO. Ourmieres-Widener brings extensive executive experience in the aviation industry and deep familiarity with ZeroAvia's operations and strategic priorities.

The board of directors express their thanks to Val for his extraordinary vision and dedication in founding ZeroAvia and building it into the pioneering company it is today. “We are grateful that he will continue to lend his insight and support as a director. We are also fortunate to have Christine's steady leadership to guide the team through this transition, and we are confident in the company's trajectory.”

ZeroAvia remains focused on its mission to decarbonise aviation through hydrogen-electric propulsion technology. The company's programmes, partnerships and development milestones continue to progress, and the board is committed to ensuring a seamless leadership transition.