Canadian Advanced Air Mobility Appoints New National Board Members

Canadian Advanced Air Mobility Appoints New National Board Members

Canadian Advanced Air Mobility (CAAM) has announced the appointment of two new national board members, Simar Miglani of CAE and Niloofar Moradi from the National Research Council of Canada (NRC). This development marks a significant step forward in CAAM’s ongoing mission to foster a sustainable, integrated, and accessible future for Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) throughout Canada.

New Leadership to Drive Strategic Growth

Simar Miglani, who serves as Business Development and Strategy Lead for CAE’s Advanced Air Mobility and Air Traffic Services training division, brings a wealth of strategic insight and industry expertise to the board. Her role is expected to accelerate the safe integration of emerging aerial technologies and innovative business models within the Canadian aviation landscape. Meanwhile, Niloofar Moradi, Director of Strategy and Business Development at the NRC’s Aerospace Research Centre, contributes over a decade of experience in aerospace innovation, particularly in sustainable aviation. Her leadership in clean aviation technologies, coupled with her background in engine development and certification, will bolster CAAM’s efforts to promote sustainable aviation solutions and strengthen engagement with federal innovation platforms.

Navigating a Rapidly Evolving Sector

These appointments come at a critical juncture as CAAM confronts the challenges posed by the rapid growth of advanced aircraft, which is beginning to outpace existing Fixed Base Operator (FBO) infrastructure. The organization must address pressing needs such as the development of new charging systems, the implementation of updated safety protocols, and the establishment of revised financial frameworks to support the expanding AAM ecosystem. As the sector evolves, increased scrutiny on safety culture and infrastructure planning is anticipated, while competitors may seek to integrate advanced air mobility operations into their current frameworks.

The new board members succeed Stella-Marissa Hughes (CAE) and Eric Lefebvre (NRC), who have transitioned to new roles. Hughes now leads the Air Traffic Services Training Centre at CAE, and Lefebvre has assumed the position of CEO at H2CANFLY, advancing Canada’s leadership in hydrogen-powered aviation. CAAM expressed its gratitude for their leadership and contributions, which were pivotal in shaping the early development of Canada’s advanced air mobility ecosystem.

JR Hammond, executive director of CAAM, stated, “We are excited to welcome Simar and Niloofar to the CAAM board. Their expertise and vision will be instrumental in guiding our ecosystem at a time when momentum for Advanced Air Mobility in Canada is stronger than ever. As we navigate this next chapter, their leadership ensures we continue to bridge public and private innovation to make AAM safe, sustainable, and scalable.”

With these leadership changes, CAAM is reinforcing its position as Canada’s national industry association and a catalyst for collaborative innovation. By leveraging CAE’s training and operational capabilities alongside the NRC’s research and innovation expertise, CAAM aims to address infrastructure and safety challenges while driving the growth and integration of advanced air mobility across the country.