Simon Meakins

Simon has been in the role for Director Advanced Air Mobility for the EAMEA region for Bristow Group since 2023, where he is responsible for developing and launching AAM operations in the region to match the business’s strategic priorities.

Prior to joining Bristow, Simon held a number of senior leadership positions in the helicopter industry, including as the Vice President responsible for bringing into service a helicopter fleet for VVIPs in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, as AOC Accountable Manager & Business Unit Director for a large UK based (EASA licensed) Offshore and Search & Rescue helicopter operator, and as Nominated Person for Flight Operations (Post-Holder).

Simon’s career started in the UK Royal Air Force where he served for 16 years as an officer, helicopter pilot, instructor and flight commander, during which time he completed operational tours of duty in the Middle East and the Balkans. He transitioned to commercial helicopters in 2011, flying offshore in the UK as a Commander of large IFR all-weather helicopters, transitioning into the Chief Pilot role before moving into senior management.

Simon is a Fellow of the Royal Aeronautical Society, he serves as the co-chair of the UK eVTOL Safety Leadership Group, and represents Bristow on the UK Future Flight Industry Group.