IAG launches aviation startup accelerator program

International Airlines Group, the parent company of IAG Cargo, Aer Lingus, British Airways, Iberia, Vueling and Avios, is inviting companies to participate in Hangar 51, an initiative to support entrepreneurial innovation in the airline industry.    International Airlines Group (IAG), the parent company of IAG Cargo, Aer Lingus, British Airways, Iberia, Vueling and Avios, has launched a global accelerator program called Hangar 51, the company said in a statement.
   IAG is inviting startups to participate in the 10-week initiative designed to support entrepreneurial innovation in the airline industry. Hangar 51 participants will work with L Marks, a corporate innovation specialist and early-stage investment firm, at IAG’s headquarters in London in an effort to accelerate the development of their products.
   The program will focus on four primary areas: improving airport access, digitizing business processes, data driven decision making, and something IAG calls “Wildcard,” i.e. any other ideas participants might have for improving airline customer experience.
   Glenn Morgan, IAG’s head of digital transformation, said the accelerator program will bring cutting edge digital start-ups into the heart of its business.
   “This initiative is a great opportunity for early stage businesses to fast-track their innovative ideas by working closely with IAG,” Morgan said. “We’ll fully support them through mentoring and funding to improve customer journeys with new disruptive and innovative ideas.”
   “Hangar 51 is offering a fantastic opportunity for start-ups to trial their products and tech within one of the world’s leading aviation companies, as well as give them access to the best mentors and an environment where they can develop their ideas,” added Stuart Marks, technology entrepreneur and chairman of L Marks.
   Applications for the Hangar 51 program will close at midnight GMT on Nov. 6, 2016.