News & Media

KNIGHTHOOD GLOBAL CONCLUDES AVIATION STUDY FOR ZIMBABWEAN GOVERNMENT

Study and business plan define roadmap for group aviation infrastructure in country

8 April 2024

Knighthood Global has concluded its work to create an aviation study and business plan for the Government of Zimbabwe, laying out a roadmap for the reinvigoration of the Zimbabwean national carrier and the creation of aviation infrastructure that will support and support the country’s economic aspirations and objectives.

A team of Knighthood executives and aviation consultants from ICF undertook several visits to Zimbabwe where they met with key government ministers, ZIDA officials, and other aviation stakeholders in Harare, Bulawayo, and Victoria Falls to assess and understand the country’s infrastructure capacity and requirements before developing the plan which makes provision for the creation of a new national airline and an integrated travel and tourism group to support Zimbabwe’s National Tourism and Growth Strategy, published in 2021 .

The plan outlines a network growth strategy for local, regional and international connectivity in support of the opening of the skies between African nations and, more importantly, in facilitating economic growth driven by tourism, trade and commerce.

Founded by Principals, James Hogan and James Rigney and based in the United Arab Emirates, Knighthood Global is a specialist aviation, travel and tourism company which has deep expertise and proven experience in providing turnkey strategic planning and operational support capability solutions to governments, airlines, and travel and tourism organisations.

Knighthood Global executives seen with KM Malta Airlines Executive Chairman, David Curmi (centre), at the airline's inaugural flight on 31 March 2024

KNIGHTHOOD GLOBAL CELEBRATES INAUGURAL FLIGHT OF KM MALTA AIRLINES

Two-year project reaches culmination in launch of new national carrier

31 March 2024: Knighthood Global executives joined other dignitaries at Malta International Airport in Luqa to celebrate the inaugural flight of Europe’s newest airline when KM Malta Airlines launched its operations, marking the beginning of a new chapter in Malta’s aviation history.

The first flight was the culmination of a major effort to set up an entirely new EU-compliant legal and operational structure and meet the planned launch date following the approval by the Maltese parliament and European Commission of a five-year business plan for a new national airline for the island nation following the closure of Air Malta.

Over the last two years, Knighthood Global, under guidance of David Curmi, the Executive Chairman, worked with airline management and other key aviation stakeholders, to support the development of the business plan, which is structured around a robust network of key destinations and a modern, fuelefficient fleet to ensure stable, regular, and all-year-round connectivity. The plan simultaneously makes provision for a commercial mix based on a strong, customer centric proposition, and outlines a new organisation and workforce structure to ensure the right shape and size, with the right skills and capacity for an efficient airline operation.

Working with the Executive Chairman and management, Knighthood’s team also played a vital project management role to put in place the required regulatory, financial, commercial and operational pillars, for the first flight to take place seamlessly upon the closure of Air Malta on 30 March 2024.

James Hogan, Chairman of Knighthood Global, said:

“This is a new milestone for Malta and its aviation industry. We are very proud to have supported David Curmi and his team of executives in the development of the plan, and the complex process of setting up KM Malta Airlines.
“Our collaboration with the Executive Chairman, the Government, and the European Commission has been instrumental in shaping a new future-proof airline that will enhance the country’s business environment and ensure its regional competitiveness as the industry evolves. The groundwork is now in place for Malta’s new airline to operate sustainably in connecting the island with mainland Europe, and beyond by virtue of code-share relationships, serving all segments of the market.
“We wish David and his team at KM Malta Airlines every success in the future. I am convinced the new airline will properly serve Malta, its people and its economy. It will also enhance the nation’s future opportunities for aviation development and economic growth.”

WTTC SUMMIT IN KIGALI FOCUS ON HUGE OPPORTUNITY IN AFRICA

2 November : A delegation from Abu Dhabi-based Knighthood Global, led by Chairman James Hogan attended the WTTC Summit 2023 in Kigali, Rwanda from 1 to 3 November.

Under the theme, Building Bridges to a Sustainable Future, the summit, which attracted a large international audience, was addressed by HE Paul Kagame, the President of the Republic of Rwanda and senior government counterparts from Burundi and Tanzania, to discuss the big issues facing travel and tourism today.

In a panel discussion entitled ‘What’s your ETA?’ James shared learnings from his 40 year experience in the global airline industry, and spoke about how Africa, with all its social, economic and political diversity could leverage the continent’s strengths in travel and tourism for the future.

He said:

“There are no simple one-size fits all solutions to these problems. However, working together as an industry and through public and private sector collaboration, we can map out a clear vision for the future and develop workable and realistic policies to achieve a sustainable future.”

Africa’s biggest strength and opportunity is with its people.

Citing a recent New York Times editorial, and a report on the youth boom in Africa, he noted that by 2050, one in four people would be African, while the median age for the continent is 19. The continent will have the youngest, fasted growing population on earth, as other major global populations age and lose momentum.

He said this “youthquake” (1) would have enormous implications for how the world perceives and interacts with Africa. Also presenting an enormous challenge to empower this dynamic and energetic generation and provide meaningful opportunities that could transform the industry.

The discussion also covered investment, partnership and connectivity issues as part of a broader strategic debate on how Afirca could leverage new technology, policies and partnerships to grow and compete.

(1) “Youthquake: Why African Demography Should Matter to the World” - Edward Paice, Director of the Africa Research Institute in London quoted in The New York Time – “Old World, Young Africa” October 28, 2023

KNIGHTHOOD IN KIGALI TO ATTEND WTTC SUMMIT

18 October : A three-member delegation from Abu Dhabi-based Knighthood Global, led by Chairman James Hogan will be attending the WTTC Summit 2023 which takes place in Kigali Rwanda from 1 to 3 November this year.

Under the theme, Building Bridges to a Sustainable Future, the summit has attracted an international audience from countries around the world to discuss the big issues facing travel and tourism today.

James Hogan is accompanied by Knighthood CEO, James Rigney and Camiel Eurlings, former Dutch Minister of Transport, Public Works and Water Management and Member of the European Parliament, who is a Partner at Knighthood Global.

Mr Hogan will participate in a panel discussion entitled ‘What’s your ETA?’ in which he will share relevant learnings from the global airline industry, and how they can be leveraged by airlines operating in Africa today.

He said:

“The long-awaited and welcome emergence from the Covid era has not been without new and significant challenges as we’ve seen in a very difficult summer of travel in Europe and America. In addition to the critical challenge posed by climate change, travel and tourism faces ongoing financial pressures and significant manpower and skills shortages, which need to be resolved if the industry is to meet demand and customer expectations.

Knighthood Global is also a sponsor of the 2023 summit.

NEW NATIONAL CARRIER FOR MALTA ANNOUNCED

Knighthood Global aviation strategy partner

3 October 2023:

The Government of Malta today announced the establishment of a new national carrier which will commence operations on 31 March 2024 when Air Malta closes down after 50 years of operation.

This follows the ratification by the Maltese parliament of a five-year business plan which outlines the strategic roadmap for the establishment of a new national carrier for the island nation.

A national carrier is recognised as a critical part of Malta’s economy, ensuring reliable year-round connectivity between the island nation and mainland Europe, while simultaneously building up the country’s aviation infrastructure, which is vital not only to tourism, but to the economic growth, development and diversification of Malta.

The Executive Chairman of Air Malta appointed Knighthood Global, UAE-based aviation, travel and tourism specialists, to develop the business plan, initiating a comprehensive planning process and complex negotiations with the EU to find a way forward after successive attempts to resuscitate and reposition Air Malta over two decades were unsuccessful.

James Hogan, Chairman of Knighthood Global, said: “This is a great day for Malta and its aviation industry. We are very proud to have supported the development of the plan, which has now been ratified by the Maltese parliament marking a new milestone in the history of aviation in Malta.

“In a complex process of strategic business planning and negotiations we worked collaboratively on the ground with the Executive Chairman of Air Malta, the government, and the European Commission and to shape a new future-proof airline that will enhance the country’s business environment and ensure its global competitiveness.

“We strongly believe that Malta can re-establish a sustainable and proud airline to serve all segments of the market.”

The five-year business plan is based around two key drivers – a robust network of key destinations and a modern, fuel-efficient fleet. The plan outlines what the commercial mix based on strong, should customer centric proposition should comprise. This can only be delivered by an engaged committed workforce. In this regard, the government has taken a number of critical measures to lay the foundations for a workforce of the right size and shape.

James Hogan said: “This is a realistic and exciting roadmap for the future of aviation in Malta. The successful implementation of this plan and the establishment of a sound airline business will be good for Malta, its people and its economy. It will also enhance the nation’s future opportunities for aviation development and economic growth.

JAMES HOGAN DELIVERS TSINGHUA AVIATION MBA PROGRAMME IN CHINA

[Abu Dhabi – 20 August 2023] James Hogan was in China where he delivered a series of lectures on global airline operation and management as part of a specialist executive MBA programme offered by Tsinghua University in Beijing.

During the four-day programme, he covered a broad range of core topics including strategy, network and fleet planning, brand, product and service development and peak workforce performance, in addition to safety and crisis management. Mr Hogan concluded by presenting a case study on the evolution of the Etihad Aviation Group in which he showcased the transformation of a USD 300 million airline into a travel and tourism group valued at more than USD 20 billion. He explained the process put in place to build a world-class diversified aviation and travel group, which achieved profitability for five consecutive years from 2011 to 2015.

The programme is organised in conjunction with École de Ponts Business School and École Nationale de l’Aviation Civile in France and combines online and classroom training.

Tsinghua is one of China’s preeminent and oldest universities, and a leading research institution. More than 21 prestigious and influential schools are committed to cultivating global citizens through the pursuit of education and research at the highest level of excellence to solve pressing global problems.

A respected leader in aviation, James Hogan has more than four decades of experience in aviation, travel and tourism with hands-on experience ranging from operational to executive and board roles at nearly a dozen international airlines. Today he is Chairman of Knighthood Global Limited, an advisory consultancy he set up in 2017. The consultancy works with governments, airlines and other private and public industry stakeholders to drive growth, collaboration and added value for businesses in the sector.

‘AVIATION IS A LONG GAME’, JAMES HOGAN SAYS AT AB LEADERSHIP SUMMIT 2023

The industry veteran discussed the challenges and opportunities faced by the aviation industry

James Hogan, Chairman of Knighthood Global took to stage at the Arabian Business Leadership Summit 2023 to discuss the challenges and opportunities faced by the aviation industry.

With his extensive experience in the sector since 1974, Hogan emphasized the importance of adapting to changing dynamics, technological advancements, and global shifts. He highlighted the significance of empowering people, optimising business opportunities, and addressing environmental and societal concerns.

Embracing change and building networks

Hogan acknowledged that the aviation industry has witnessed significant changes over the years, including the emergence of low-cost carriers and the impact of major global events.

He emphasized the importance of adaptability and the need to constantly reassess operational models and network strategies.

As the industry is highly regulated and consolidations are challenging on a global scale, working smarter through partnerships and alliances becomes crucial.

Supporting economic growth and diversification

Aviation plays a vital role in supporting economic growth and diversification. Hogan highlighted that the industry contributes “3.6 percent to global GDP and carries over 4 billion passengers annually.”

During the pandemic, aviation played a key role in transporting essential goods and supporting tourism, driving modernisation and change across the entire economy. Hogan stressed the need to “balance economic growth with environmental sustainability” and the importance of effectively managing global regulatory hurdles.

Vision, ambition, and mandate

To build a successful airline, Hogan emphasized the importance of having a clear vision, ambition, and mandate. Using the example of Etihad Airways, he highlighted the significance of safety, economic contribution, and long-term sustainability.

Fundamental governance, accountability, collaboration, and embracing technological advancements were also critical elements in achieving these goals.

The role of people, partnerships, and technology

Hogan underscored the importance of people, partnerships, and technology in the aviation industry. Collaboration with stakeholders such as aircraft manufacturers, engine suppliers, and industry leaders is essential to unlock economies of scale and achieve success.

He emphasized the need to invest in people, foster a culture of competency, and provide opportunities for growth and development.

Additionally, embracing new technologies, such as artificial intelligence, and leveraging data effectively can enhance the passenger experience, ensure smooth operations, and drive innovation.

“Airlines may be capital-intensive businesses – but the right people make the difference,” Hogan said.

Customer focus and innovation

Customer satisfaction and value creation are paramount in the aviation industry. Hogan emphasized the need to respect and cater to the diverse needs of customers while offering innovative products and services.

He shared examples from Etihad Airways, such as introducing the “residence” concept, enhancing the onboard experience, and incorporating technology-driven solutions. Hogan stressed that innovation and differentiation are crucial for success in a competitive market.

“Etihad was started in the side of a porta cabin on the side of Abu Dhabi Airport, we had to build infrastructure from scratch,” Hogan said reflecting on his time as a leader for Abu Dhabi’s national carrier.

Navigating disruptions and environmental challenges

Hogan acknowledged that disruptions are inevitable in the aviation industry, ranging from geopolitical conflicts to natural disasters. Effective contingency planning and anticipating disruptors are vital to ensure minimal disruptions to operations and passenger satisfaction. Furthermore, addressing climate change and adopting sustainable practices, including fuel-efficient aircraft and improved asset utilisation, are essential to meet evolving environmental, social, and governance (ESG) requirements.

As the aviation industry continues to evolve, it is imperative for industry leaders to adapt to changing dynamics, embrace technology, foster partnerships, and prioritise customer satisfaction. Hogan’s insights shed light on the importance of vision, ambition, and a people-centric approach. By effectively navigating challenges, such as regulatory hurdles and environmental concerns, the aviation industry can achieve sustainable growth while contributing to economic development and societal well-being.

Australian James Hogan is a global veteran of the aviation, travel and hospitality industries with more than four decades of senior executive leadership experience.

Hogan is also a Director, Sanad Services Group (Mubadala Company) and a guest lecturer for the EMBA Programme at Tsinghua University in Beijing, China.

He previously served as Group President and Chief Executive of the Etihad Aviation Group where he oversaw the development of Etihad Airways from a $300 million airline and its transformation into a travel and tourism group valued at more than $20 billion, achieving the mandate from his shareholders to build a world-class diversified aviation and travel group, and securing profitability for five consecutive years from 2011 to 2015.

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KNIGHTHOOD INVESTS IN ODYS AVIATION TO SUPPORT SUSTAINABLE AIRCRAFT MANUFACTURING

[Abu Dhabi & Long Beach, CA, 3 May 2023] Knighthood Global has invested in Odys Aviation, a sustainable aircraft company building hybrid-electric vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) aircraft for regional connectivity based in Long Beach, California.

As part of the arrangement, James Hogan, Chairman of Knighthood Global, and Camiel Eurlings, a Partner of the aviation, travel and tourism advisory firm, will also serve on the Advisory Board of Odys Aviation, sharing their commercial experience and deep aviation expertise to expand the organisation’s global presence.

James Dorris, Co-founder and CEO of Odys Aviation, said:

“Our aircraft will revolutionize commercial aviation. We envision a future of travel that is sustainable, efficient, and delivers an exceptional passenger experience.”

“Our plans are revolutionary, bridging the gap between existing technology and fully electric aviation, bringing the future of flight to life.

”By collaborating with Knighthood, we will expand our depth of industry experience and market reach to travellers, operators, and investors around the world.”

James Hogan, Chairman of Knighthood Global, said:

“Our investment in Odys represents a very exciting opportunity for us to play a role in the future of sustainable global aviation. Air-taxis miss the mark, Odys is developing sustainable VTOL aircraft to cut the travel time in half on busy travel corridors and create a new era of aviation untethered from runways and large airports.”

Knighthood joins a group of significant investors and partners, including the United States Air Force, which is confident that the technology will play an important role in future defense operations. Cargo has also been identified as a key opportunity for the Odys aircraft for both defense and commercial markets.

“We know that aviation is an indispensable driver of the global economy. However, it has to change fundamentally to meet the industry’s agreed zero carbon commitment, and to reduce its negative environmental impact.

“It is only by harnessing this new technology and through ongoing investment that aviation can evolve to meet these significant global challenges. We are very pleased to be supporting this team of inspiring, visionary people,” Mr Hogan added.

About Knighthood Global

Knighthood Global is an advisory and consultancy company set up by James Hogan in 2017. Its team of specialist partners brings together decades of experience and expertise in multiple key industry sectors.

They offer unique operational and strategic insights and expertise gained while working with and for public and private sector stakeholders and business partners in the aviation, travel and tourism industry.

Using deep global expertise in business strategy and advisory, transformation, capital structuring and sourcing, and investment services, Knighthood works collaboratively with governments, airlines, airports, MROs, and travel companies seeking out synergies and economies of scale to create strategies that deliver real value to corporations and countries.

Knighthood Global is based in Abu Dhabi and has offices in Geneva and Malta and has strategic partnerships with HiFly, Oxford Economics, Four Communications, Seraph Aviation Group, Fairfax Africa Fund, CentreCom, Fairwater Capital, Eyles AMG, and ICF. For more information visit www.knighthoodglobal.com

About Odys Aviation

Odys Aviation is an advanced air mobility company that was established in 2019 to make travel seamless and efficient. The Odys mission is to build safe, sustainable aircraft to reduce travel time on the world's busiest corridors. With a 750 mile range, Odys services 52% of domestic US air routes and many more globally. Using hybrid-electric vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) technology, Odys is forging the next step in commercial aviation, cutting travel times in half while significantly reducing the industry's carbon footprint. For more information, visit odysaviation.com

Technology and innovation are fundamental but people make the difference

Airlines have a once in a generation opportunity to restructure, innovate and grow, said James Hogan delivering the keynote address to the Arabian Business Conference which was held at the Museum of the Future in Dubai.

“The pandemic, like every other crisis before it, will be a catalyst for change in the aviation industry. It is a new opportunity for aviation to rethink and reset having been stripped down to the bone.

“Now as demand returns and grows, the industry has to reskill and rebuild – but stronger, smarter and more resilient than ever before. We’re in a new era,” he said.

Speaking on the topic of ‘A New Phase in Commercial Aviation’, Mr Hogan, who is Chairman of Knighthood Global Limited, outlined the current trends which are shaping the industry and identified the imperatives which will be critical to remain competitive and sustainable in the future.

Fundamental deregulation continues to be important to bring open skies to more global markets, allowing greater competition, improved commercial operations and consolidation across the sector.

He noted the changing market dynamics and the big aviation plans for Saudi Arabia and in India, which will affect global traffic flows, especially over the main Middle East hubs. Airlines will need to restructure according to customer needs and market dynamics, not legacy systems and mind-sets.

Consolidation through global partnerships and alliances continues to play a role in ensuring greater synergies and efficiencies for airlines while providing customers with more choice and benefits

Innovation and technology must be big ticket items for the winners. New technologies such as AI and big data are vital to enhance distribution, revenue management and commercial decision making.

In this year of sustainability, he noted the need for more urgent action on climate change: “As an industry, we were the first to commit to a joint target to reduce emissions, and last year, led by IATA we went further, setting a new goal of Net Zero by 2050. But we can’t do more of the same. Apart from sustainable aviation fuels, and next gen aircraft and engines, trials are under way with electric and hybrid propulsion aircraft which can dramatically reduce our dependence on fossil fuels and reduce emissions. We just need to keep testing and investing.”

“Finally, however, it all comes down to the right people. Studies show that airlines which showed flexibility, compassion and care during the Pandemic emerged as winners. The airline industry is in the end a people business.

“Now is the time to engage with and invest in reskilling and upskilling the right people. They will always make all the difference.”

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The Aviator

James Hogan took Etihad Airways from a $300 million startup to a $20 billion giant. In his first interview since stepping down five years ago, he looks back at the stunning growth and success of the UAE national carrier, and the global industry’s post-pandemic future.

There is only a fleeting moment during our two-hour conversation when James Hogan is lost for words.

“I actually don’t know. I really can’t tell you,” he says. Who can blame him for coming unstuck, when asked how many countries in the world he has visited?

When it comes to aviation, tourism and hospitality, the world has seen fewer bigger and better stars. You name it, and the chances are Hogan has not only done it but run it. Over an 11-year period from 2006, he transformed Etihad Airways from a $300 million startup into a $20 billion global travel and tourism group.

From 2011, he delivered the shareholders five consecutive years of audited profit, whilst also earning the airline a reputation for having one of the industry’s best customer services and experiences. In 2010, The Economist hailed Hogan’s super connectivity plans as being “bad news for competitors but good news for passengers.”

Since stepping down five years ago, Hogan has been running Knighthood Global, which he set up to offer business advisory, capital restructuring, and investment services in aviation, hospitality, tourism and real estate.

There have been no shortage of corporate giants and governments keen to talk to Hogan – but Hogan himself doesn’t do much talking when it comes to the media. This is his first interview in five years, and it’s taken – well, around five years – to persuade him to do it.

“Let’s just say I’ve been busy,” he says, adding: “Aviation never sleeps, and actually, not even during the pandemic.”

He may be 66 years old, but Hogan – who divides his time between Geneva, London and Abu Dhabi – looks as energetic as ever. Sitting still, as colleagues will tell you, even on a 12-hour long-haul flight, is just not in his nature.

The industry today is of course very different to the one Hogan left behind when he departed Etihad. In January 2021, the Aviation: Beyond Borders Report forecast a loss of 46 million aviation-supported jobs globally due to the Covid-19 imposed shutdowns.

Closed borders, parked planes, empty skies. Who could have imagined such a scenario? Well, actually, Hogan is more circumspect. Nobody saw Covid coming, but the smartest airline bosses always plan for the biggest crisis.

“One of the challenges in operating any airline as CEO is every day is different, and over the years, I’ve been exposed to wars, to pandemics, to financial crises. Airline CEOs have that awareness and capability to tackle crisis. That’s part of the job. Yes, it was one of the worst long-term shutdowns.”

He adds: “People took a different approach to the crisis, but I knew the market would come back in time, I had no doubt, because that’s the nature of aviation, it’s mobility. The consumer will come back and what we are seeing now is the rebound.”

But, he stresses: “You must remember that it wasn’t a 100 percent global shutdown. Carriers took different positions. Some continued to fly, some restructured their businesses, their fleet deals, their union agreements. But I had no doubt the market would come back in time.”

So, has it fully come back? “I think capacity is back to about 70 percent of where it was, full fleets are not back in the air. In some cases, key staff were let go, you need to rehire, retrain. It also depends on what type of service you are. It depends on how you tackle the challenge. But let’s not kid ourselves, it’s been a tough road for many people.”

The future definitely, finally, is starting to look bright. Carriers in the Middle East are set to expand their fleets with an additional 2,980 commercial jets in the next two decades, major supplier Boeing said in September.

The new planes will be required to meet the strongly recovering demand for both passenger and cargo airplanes, according to Boeing.

Middle East airlines are expected to spend around $765bn to get the additional jets – more than two-thirds of which will be new deliveries, while the remaining will replace older models.

The fleet forecast comes as Boeing also expects a 4 percent growth in passenger traffic annually – after the Covid-19 pandemic almost completely shut down the aviation business around the world.

Hogan is also bullish about the region. “I think the Gulf carriers have been great connectors – when you look at a full service airlines like Etihad with a strong destination relationship. When you look at the Gulf and you can fly nonstop to most places in the world, that’s what has been so exciting about these carriers. The Indian subcontinent is extremely important to Gulf carriers, so is Europe especially Germany.”

He adds: “When you look at what’s happening in Saudi Arabia, and the World Cup in Qatar, that’s good for everybody because that puts a snapshot on the region going forward as more than just a connector. Dubai is a good example of a destination in its own right, and the same in Abu Dhabi. So instead of just through traffic you are getting point to point traffic and the average yields on point to point are greater than the transfer traffic. If I look at the region, I am very bullish about the next 20 years and how the region continues to evolve.”

Hogan’s 20-year outlook may sound lengthy to say the least, but, he says, that is the nature of the industry. “It’s not like a supermarket where you can just walk in a buy what you like. If you are looking at new efficient next generation aircraft from Boeing and Airbus you have to have that roadmap 20 years out and you need to acknowledge that you are going to have shocks along the way.”

If the Gulf is where the action is right now, Hogan’s global outlook for the industry very much points to India for the excitement. After decades of losses, the Indian government approved the privatisation of Air India in 2017, but it was only a year ago that the full effects of ownership by Tata Sons began to take shape, including the appointment of a new CEO. That, says Hogan, is the market to keep a close eye on.

“One of the most exciting opportunities is the restructuring of Air India with the Tata Group. This is a huge market but with astute travellers, very proud people. You have to earn their business. If I was looking at a threat, it could be an invigorated Air India. If Air India can meet the people standard and product standards on the three Gulf carriers, they are going to be a major player.”

Elsewhere, Hogan points to impressive consolidation of airlines in the US market, with strong distribution networks. Africa, he says, still faces challenges when it comes to aviation policies, but the market is “unique”. “It can still be opened up. Africa has issues on support, regulation and funding but when they overcome them, and we look 20 years ahead they have a strong future.”

Other regions like Latin America and China also offer “strong opportunities.” And he sees commercial supersonic flights being an integral part of the aviation industry over the next two decades. American carriers have already taken orders for the Boom supersonic planes – don’t be surprised to see Gulf carriers do the same.

But, when it comes to Hogan, it isn’t just his unique industry insights that make him stand out from the crowd. As everyone who has ever worked with Hogan will testify, it is his absolute dedication – some would say healthy obsession – with customer service – that really sets him apart.

“The customer is king. How you go the extra yard for your guest can differentiate between airlines, especially now in a digital society. Coming out of the pandemic, customers can go online and source and validate the proposition. The traveller post pandemic has become much more savvy. People are reassessing their quality of life. When they look at how they spend their money they are being much more discerning,” he says.

But how can airlines achieve the standards he was famous for setting at Etihad? “People who know me know I’m a great believer in people. I played a lot of sport, Australian rules football, and I take the analogy of sport into business. You have to build a team and a common goal. In my time at Etihad I took a very small business and built it into one of the best brands in the world. From day one I was very focused on people. The way you build a team, the way you communicate, how you reward and acknowledge great work. I think it comes down to leadership.”

Hogan has certainly had his fair share of leadership. He started his career in 1975 at Ansett Airlines in Australia as an airport officer and says he “always knew” he would one day be a CEO. Hogan climbed the ladder to eventually hold senior positions at British Midland International, Hertz Corporation, Forte Hotels and Gulf Air.

Does he miss it? Would he do it again? “I’ve been associated with Abu Dhabi for over 20 years. One of the most exciting mandates I was ever given was by the shareholders to move forward with a very clear mandate on building Etihad Airways. That was an exciting time, it was part of the 2030 vision and a very clear roadmap. To be able to build an airline from scratch as we did and bring together a team of outstanding people from all around the world, to create connectivity alongside two very serious players. To be seen at a point in time as one of the best airlines in the world, that’s pretty hard to beat.”

It’s often forgotten that Hogan did a lot more than just build an airline. Etihad’s growth helped turn Abu Dhabi into a destination city. Thousands of jobs were created as a result. The airline, under Hogan, became an innovation machine: its Emiratisation programme, its graduate training programme, an all-female call centre in Al Ain, US immigration pre-clearance in Abu Dhabi, and even a penthouse on the A380.

Today, Hogan works with several government-owned airlines in Europe, Africa and the Caribbean, providing restructuring advice. Whether it’s building an airline that can support tourism, or setting out a roadmap to privatisation, Hogan and his team of experts at Knighthood Global are fast becoming known as The A Team of aviation. No problem they face cannot be solved.

I end by asking him if he can tell a lot about an airline – its condition, its service, its prospects – the moment he boards.

“I can tell you when I walk into the airport,” he says.

With that, he heads off to Abu Dhabi Airport for a flight back to Switzerland. It’s a six-hour flight, but the only thing certain is that he won’t be sitting still for very long.

Interview by Anil Bhoyrul

Wed 9 Nov 2022

Knighthood Global commits to support social innovation start-up combatting modern day slavery

[Geneva, 3 November 2022] Knighthood is very proud to support slavefreetrade International, a new volunteer-based social innovation NGO which was set up to improve human rights in the workplace by improving respect for human rights, rendering workplaces impervious to forced labour, modern day slavery and other abuses which are still common today across the world.

James Hogan has agreed to be the Geneva-based NGO’s pro bono chair sharing his commercial experience and international network to expand the organisation’s global presence.

As part of its commitment, Knighthood will also provide other pro bono services to support the organisation’s advocacy and campaign activities.

slavefreetrade has harnessed conventional and blockchain technology to create a unique human rights compliance platform, which allows organisations to map, assess, and monitor every point across their organisation and supply chains, ensuring compliance with internationally accepted human rights standards.

The greater visibility and unlimited and unprecedented transparency this provides is critical for organisations to play an active role in combatting modern-day slavery, forced labour and other human rights abuses across their supply chains.

Doing the right thing in the workplace not only helps in uplifting the dignity and safety of working people, it also provides a great competitive advantage to committed companies, because research shows that consumers want ethically and sustainably sourced products, and employees - especially post Covid – want to work only for organisations which respect their human rights. It’s a win-win situation.

While the benefits of the system seem obvious, there is still very low supply chain transparency in most big companies and organisations. Technology and consumer power can change all of this.

Accredited by the United Nations, slavefreetrade also campaigns on social issues to promote awareness of ethical and sustainable consumption, dignity and respect in the workplace, and supply chain transparency.

slavefreetrade International is setting up a global youth program for 13-23 year olds to mobilise, and give a platform, to young people where they can have a say in solving an issue they will inherit. Owing to high global demand, slavefreetrade International is extending its reach to 12 new countries including the UK, US, Australia, Brazil, Colombia, Germany and France.

For more information, visit www.slavefreetrade.org

slavefretrade presentation

Airlines’ ‘Blank Sheet of Paper’ moment is biggest opportunity for a generation

Airlines have a once in a generation opportunity to restructure, innovate and expand, said James Hogan today in a keynote address to the Global Aerospace Summit in Abu Dhabi.

“The global pandemic has been the biggest systemic shock in the history of aviation,” he said. “But that does give a unique opportunity for airlines that can move fast to respond to the situation.

“Smart operators will treat this as a ‘blank sheet of paper’ moment, looking to reinvent processes, products and mind-sets. There is a huge opportunity in front of us for airlines to create a golden age of innovation and service.”

Speaking on the topic of ‘The renewal of the commercial aviation sector’, Mr Hogan identified five levers that can re-shape the future of aviation. They include:

Fundamental deregulation to bring open skies to more global markets, allowing greater competition, improved commercial operations and consolidation across the sector.
The blank sheet of paper, allowing airlines to restructure according to customer needs and market dynamics, not legacy systems and mind-sets.
Innovation, using latest technology to identify new processes and revenue streams.
New models of employee engagement, as airlines rebuild their staffing levels post pandemic.
The need to accelerate the industry’s response to climate change pressures, using technology to identify new solutions to improve environmental performance.

“The airlines that use these levers will be the winners of the coming decades. Make no mistake: aviation is a hugely resilient industry and will recover from this systemic shock as it always has before. In previous recoveries – from 9/11, SARS and so on – there have always been winners that used the crisis to surge ahead. We’re about to see those winners emerge this time – and they will be the airlines that take advantage of the blank sheet of paper moment.”

For further information: knighthoodglobal@fourcommunications.com

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Knighthood Global announces appointment of two new members to its Advisory Board

Abu Dhabi - Knighthood Global has appointed Kirsty Tan and Ramona Mӑnescu to its Advisory Board. They join a group of industry veterans and specialists, who together with Knighthood’s international industry partners, offer a unique range of advisory services to governments and businesses.

Kirsty Tan, who is currently the International Dean of a successful global EMBA and an international consultant, brings deep specialist knowledge in the many areas including digital technology, organisational behaviour, entrepreneurship, operations management, international management, economics and finance.

Ramona has extensive experience in European politics and brings her broad network of connections in the private and public sectors, along with her deep knowledge and understanding of European business relationships, which will enrich Knighthood’s business strategy, planning and implementation across this evolving arena.

James Hogan, Chairman of Knighthood Global said: “We are now very focused on building our portfolio of aviation, airline, travel and tourism services for a post Covid future, and we’re delighted to welcome Kirsty and Ramona to our Advisory Board.

“They both have superb track records in their respective fields. Their diverse strengths and capabilities will enhance our unique Total Airline Solutions and will allow us to grow our business, especially in Europe and China.”

Kirsty is currently the International Dean of a successful global EMBA, a joint programme of ENAC, Ecole des Ponts Paris Tech and Tsinghua University, which specialises in future technology and aviation management, and also serves as an international consultant for Global 500 companies and universities.

She started her career as a Chartered Accountant working for Pacific Brands, a Top 20 diversified company, and Qantas Airways. After leading several major projects for KPMG Consulting in America, she founded KST Consulting in 2004 with a list of Fortune 500 global firms as her clients. She also served as Chief Investment Officer for Loong Airlines in China.

She holds a Doctor of Philosophy from the International School of Management, France and a Master of Business Administration and a Bachelor of Commerce from Deakin University, Australia.

A veteran of European politics, Ramona Mӑnescu’s political career began in 2002 when she was appointed to the Chamber of Deputies in the Romanian Parliament. She expanded her role into Europe serving in diverse roles in the European Parliament between 2007 and 2009 and then from 2009 to 2013 following which she became Minister of Transport in the Romanian Government. After a third mandate in the European Parliament, which ended in 2019, Ramona was appointed Minister of Foreign Affairs. She now heads up the Brussels office for Transgaz SA.

Ramona has a Bachelor of Laws degree from the University of Bucharest and several post graduate qualifications including a Diploma in International Relations and European Integration MA from the National School of Administration and Political Science of Bucharest.

Knighthood Global Limited is based in Abu Dhabi with representative offices in Geneva and Malta.