Straightline Aviation: Unmatched Experience in Airship Operations
Bringing any new aircraft into service is an incredibly complex challenge and hybrid airships are no exception. From navigating stringent certification requirements to assembling the right operational team, developing mission profiles and ensuring the highest standards of safety, every aspect must be meticulously managed. That’s why experience matters – and Straightline Aviation brings more of it than anyone else in the industry.
To successfully integrate hybrid airships into commercial operations, you need a team with deep expertise and a clear understanding of the complexities involved. At Straightline Aviation, we have that team.
Our leadership and operational teams have:
· Built and managed the largest and most successful commercial airship fleet in history.
· Operated airships across 38 countries, including the UK, USA, Brazil, Canada and Australia.
· Secured certifications and operational approvals from aviation authorities around the world.
· Trained and led a team of over 400 airship professionals across six global offices.
· Operated over 200 aircraft including airships, hot-air balloons, gas balloons and hot-air airships, in more than 50 countries.
· Played a pivotal role in establishing Virgin Atlantic as a major global airline.
· Provided strategic consultation on airship applications for commercial and government sectors including the United Nations.
Meet the Industry Leaders
Mike Kendrick – Founder & Chairman
A true pioneer in modern airship and balloon advertising, Mike Kendrick has spent decades shaping the industry. In 1988, he co-founded The Virgin Airship and Balloon Company alongside Richard Branson and was CEO of the Lightship Group, transforming it into the world’s largest aerial advertising company. He served as Project Director on Branson’s record-breaking balloon flights and is also the founder of The Mineseeker Foundation, an organisation dedicated to raising awareness of landmine victims. He holds multiple aviation world records and had the honour of being inducted as a Living Legend of Aviation. Recognised globally for his contributions to innovative aviation projects, Mike is a driving force behind modern airship development.
Mark Dorey – CEO
With extensive experience in commercial strategy and finance, Mark Dorey brings a wealth of knowledge to Straightline Aviation. As a trained chartered accountant and as an accomplished commercial director, he has played a key role in the growth of numerous aviation enterprises. Formerly the COO of The Lightship Group and Virgin Airship and Balloon Company, Mark managed business strategy growing the world’s largest fleet of commercial airships. He has significant experience in securing investment for large-scale aviation projects, ensuring the successful development of innovative airship initiatives, establishing partnerships in the US, Brazil, and Singapore. His expertise also extends to regulatory compliance, having served as Responsible Officer with the Civil Aviation Authority for The Lightship Group’s UK airship operations.
James Dexter – Director of Operations
Few individuals in the industry can rival the experience of Jim Dexter, one of the world’s most seasoned airship pilots. With over 12,000 flight hours, including 500 hours as a test pilot, Jim has played a pivotal role in advancing airship aviation and notably served as the Engineering Test Pilot for Northop Grumman’s LEMV hybrid airship project. His expertise in aviation regulations has seen him secure operating certificates in multiple countries, including the USA, UK, Italy, Australia, Brazil, Mexico, Canada, Singapore and Hong Kong. A former member of the FAA Rule Making Committee, he has personally contributed to shaping airship regulations. Jim is also a leading authority in airship operations training, having authored airship operations manuals and designed advanced pilot training programmes. His insights have been sought for research projects aimed at the continued evolution of airship technology.
Your Operations Are in Safe Hands
Whether your needs involve cargo delivery, humanitarian aid, oil, gas or mining operations support or disaster relief, Straightline Aviation provides turnkey solutions to the most challenging logistical environments. With our unrivalled expertise, we ensure seamless, safe and efficient hybrid airship operations.
Straightline Aviation brings innovation to sustainability and efficiency. Hybrid airships have the potential to transform logistics by reducing fuel consumption, minimising infrastructure needs and providing access to remote regions. Our team continuously explores the most cutting-edge advancements in airship technology to ensure we deliver the most effective solutions to our clients.
Let’s Talk
Want to explore how Straightline Aviation can help your organisation? Get in touch today to discuss your operational needs and discover how our experience can deliver innovative solutions for you.
Visit www.straightlineaviation.com to learn more.