Deploy Track
Fast-tracked testing of start-up solutions in 12 weeks
We scout for and partner with start-ups and scale-ups to fast-track the testing and implementation of new technologies to solve a current business challenge over 12 weeks
A commercialisation focused programme
We’re not like other accelerators. We don’t offer advice on go-to-market strategies or fundraising, and we don’t take equity. Instead, we focus on testing solutions to real business challenges our airlines face. Our goal is to validate whether a solution delivers value, performs effectively, and can scale successfully.
As part of our selection process, start-ups will be invited to scope out a project together with their potential sponsor. Those selected will work directly with the business unit where their solution will be tested, meeting virtually each week to ensure progress and alignment. The programmes ends with our Innovation Summit, where executives and colleagues from across our Group connect with the cohort to explore the outcomes of their projects.
At the end of the accelerator, sponsors may choose to move forward with a commercial contract to fully implement the solution or continue with further trials if needed.
Artificial intelligence can help our teams uncover new insights, enable better decision-making and enhance productivity.
We’re seeking solutions to:
- Better understand what spare parts are likely to be needed and when to optimise stock levels
- Speed up the way we work and interact with technical aircraft documentation
- Help us predict and manage cargo operations in real time via digital twins
- Improve scheduling and planning across a range of areas such as stand allocation at the airport, crew rostering, and cargo warehouse capacity management
- Help ensure hand baggage compliance at the boarding gate and that cargo that arrives at our warehouse is ‘fit to travel’
- Improve dynamic pricing and offers
From automating ground services equipment to routine tasks, new technologies can help streamline workflows, deliver consistency and improve the passenger experience.
We’re seeking solutions to:
- Help speed up assessment and triage of damage to aircraft fuselage post-flight, for example with dent depth detectors
- Reduce the need for manual handling of heavy items such as baggage
- Improve aircraft turnaround performance, such as with the use of automated and autonomous ground service equipment such as jetties
- Improve cargo warehouse operations with the use of automated forklifts
New technologies can help us achieve our short and long term sustainability goals related to decarbonisation, noise and waste reduction, and social impact.
We're seeking solutions to:
- Help streamline reporting and compliance requirements
- Better manage and reduce waste, and improve recycling
- For start-ups developing solutions in sustainable aviation fuel, carbon removals, new materials for alternatives to single-use plastic, and new technologies for fuel efficiencies, please visit our Discover Track page
Through tailored offers and experiences, we seek to inspire travel, deliver better service, increase customer satisfaction and elevate the travel experience.
We’re seeking solutions to:
- Provide more tailored offers and activities, both pre and post booking
- Deliver more premium experiences and services for our most loyal customers
- Provide a better end-to-end experience when disruption events occur
New technologies can enable better monitoring, coordination and management of operations across our bases.
We’re seeking solutions to:
- Improve the availability and trackability of tooling in our engineering bases and cargo warehouses
- Optimise daily and monthly task and workforce planning and utilisation
Advances in computing technologies can help revolutionise the way complex challenges are tackled and help better protect our data and assets.
Technologies of interest include:
- Quantum computing applications within aviation
- Next-generation cryptography based solutions
Why work with us
Fast-tracked proof of value
Access to industry experts
Solution feedback
Commercial opportunity
Expanded network
Potential for impact
As the accelerator is designed to find and test solutions to current business challenges, we want to work with start-ups whose solutions could deliver sizeable impact when deployed at scale.
Ready to test
We look to work with start-ups that are already incorporated and whose solutions have matured past minimum viable product and can be tested in an enterprise environment.
Open to investment
We don't ask start-ups for equity in exchange for participating in the accelerator but we may ask for the option to co-invest in their next round if their technology fits with our investment thesis.
Commitment
We would like to work with start-ups that are able to dedicate the time and resources required to work virtually with us on a mutually agreed project.
Open call
We have one application form for both accelerator tracks. We review applications on a rolling basis so encourage you to apply early.
Applications Open: 17 March 2025
Applications Close: 30 April 2025
Evaluation
We review all applications and invite the best applicants to deliver a short pitch virtually to potential sponsors from across our Group.
Following the pitches, selected start-ups will be invited by our airlines and operating companies to scope a proof-of-value project together. If both parties wish to move forward, we will proceed with start-up onboarding.
Pitch Week: From 19 May 2025
Onboarding: Completed by 27 June 2025
Accelerator
Our collaboration begins!
Selected start-ups will meet with their project teams weekly meetings to test and validate their solutions.
While most sessions will be held virtually, we aim to bring teams together in person at key points during the programme - at the start, mid-point, and conclusion of the project - to help strengthen collaboration.
Programme Kick-off: 1 July 2025
Innovation Summit
The accelerator ends with our Innovation Summit where senior executives and subject matter experts from across our Group can connect with the start-ups and learn more about their project outcomes.
Innovation Summit: October 2025
Partner with us to help transform aviation
How can we help?
We work closely with our airlines and operating companies to understand their requirements, scout for leading solutions and help them screen for the best fit.
For the Deploy track, our decision will be based on a number of factors such as fit with our business requirements, solution maturity, ability to implement and scale across our group and future commercial terms.
For the Discover track, we will primarily be assessing how novel your technology is and its potential for achieving cost competitiveness when scaled.
We ask that your start-up has been incorporated and:
- For the Deploy track: has a product or solution that is ready to test in a 12 week proof-of-value
- For the Discover track: have technologies that have been proven at lab scale as a minimum (TRL 4+)
We don’t have hard criteria for what we consider a start-up or scale-up. In the past, we have worked with companies from pre-seed to post Series D, but most are between Seed and Series B. We’re most interested in how well your solution fits with the challenge we are trying to solve.
If you believe your solution can help the aviation industry, we would love to hear from you. Please select ‘Other’ as the focus area under the Discover Track in the application form. We review all applications carefully and will allocate start-ups to the programme which we believe is the best fit.
No but we may ask for the option to co-invest in your next round if your technology fits with our investment thesis.