Meet the authors
EDITORIAL TEAM
Clément Charpentreau
Editor-in-chief
Clement joined the AeroTime editorial team in 2018 after honing his journalism skills in newsrooms across France. Clement has a particular interest in the role of the aviation industry in international relations. He reports mainly on developments in defense and security technology, and aviation safety. Clement is based in Vilnius, Lithuania.
Clement joined the AeroTime editorial team in 2018 after honing his journalism skills in newsrooms across France. Clement has a particular interest in the role of the aviation industry in international relations. He reports mainly on developments in defense and security technology, and aviation safety. Clement is based in Vilnius, Lithuania.
Emma Yates-Badley
Editor
Emma has worked as a sub-editor for AeroTime since April 2021 and is based in Manchester, UK. Emma was previously the Deputy Editor, Literary Editor and feature writer for Northern Soul, a website focusing on culture and enterprise in the North of England. She also works as a freelance writer and has produced features for a number of other publications, both digital and print. Emma hold an MA in Creative Writing from The Manchester Metropolitan University.
Emma has worked as a sub-editor for AeroTime since April 2021 and is based in Manchester, UK. Emma was previously the Deputy Editor, Literary Editor and feature writer for Northern Soul, a website focusing on culture and enterprise in the North of England. She also works as a freelance writer and has produced features for a number of other publications, both digital and print. Emma hold an MA in Creative Writing from The Manchester Metropolitan University.
Goda Labanauskaitė
Goda is a journalist at AeroTime. She joined AeroTime in July 2024 after working in business media and PR agencies as a writer and journalist. She is eager to explore the field of aviation and distilling intricate stories into accessible narratives. Goda is based in Vilnius, Lithuania.
Ian Molyneaux
Journalist
Ian joined AeroTime in February 2023 after working as a journalist in London, UK. He has also previously worked for a business aviation events organizer and has a master’s degree in journalism. Ian is based in Brighton, UK.
Ian joined AeroTime in February 2023 after working as a journalist in London, UK. He has also previously worked for a business aviation events organizer and has a master’s degree in journalism. Ian is based in Brighton, UK.
Jean Carmela Lim
Journalist
Jean is a member of AeroTime’s editorial team, working as an aviation writer and based in Manila, Philippines. Previously, she worked in operational aviation roles in Manila, Philippines and Seoul, South Korea before moving to Australia to work in corporate and government travel. In 2012, Jean established her own luxury and adventure travel blog, Holy Smithereens. She is also a contributor for World Travel Market London, one of the biggest annual events in the travel sector. She covers trends and issues in hospitality and luxury travel for a B2B market, interviewing key personalities in the industry.
Jean is a member of AeroTime’s editorial team, working as an aviation writer and based in Manila, Philippines. Previously, she worked in operational aviation roles in Manila, Philippines and Seoul, South Korea before moving to Australia to work in corporate and government travel. In 2012, Jean established her own luxury and adventure travel blog, Holy Smithereens. She is also a contributor for World Travel Market London, one of the biggest annual events in the travel sector. She covers trends and issues in hospitality and luxury travel for a B2B market, interviewing key personalities in the industry.
Luke Peters
Journalist
Luke has been an aviation journalist since 2021. Having previously worked for several airlines as well as for Airbus, Luke developed a comprehensive knowledge of the commercial aviation industry and airline operations. He subsequently re-trained as a lawyer specializing in aviation law and aircraft finance. A qualified pilot himself, Luke spends his spare time as part of a team keeping one of the world’s last remaining Catalina flying boats airworthy. Luke has previously worked for Simple Flying. He is based in Cambridge, UK.
Luke has been an aviation journalist since 2021. Having previously worked for several airlines as well as for Airbus, Luke developed a comprehensive knowledge of the commercial aviation industry and airline operations. He subsequently re-trained as a lawyer specializing in aviation law and aircraft finance. A qualified pilot himself, Luke spends his spare time as part of a team keeping one of the world’s last remaining Catalina flying boats airworthy. Luke has previously worked for Simple Flying. He is based in Cambridge, UK.
Michael Jonga
Senior Media & Partnerships Manager
Michael joined AeroTime in 2021. He is a presenter and journalist working across our editorial, campaigns and content teams. Prior to joining AeroTime, he worked in Communications and completed a degree in Aeronautical Engineering. Michael’s work in aviation has led to recognition in his native Zimbabwe, where he was recognised at the 2021 Zimbabwe Achievers Awards. He is now based in Vilnius, Lithuania.
Michael joined AeroTime in 2021. He is a presenter and journalist working across our editorial, campaigns and content teams. Prior to joining AeroTime, he worked in Communications and completed a degree in Aeronautical Engineering. Michael’s work in aviation has led to recognition in his native Zimbabwe, where he was recognised at the 2021 Zimbabwe Achievers Awards. He is now based in Vilnius, Lithuania.
Miquel Ros
Deputy Editor
Miquel has been Deputy Editor at AeroTime since late 2022 and is based in Barcelona, Spain. In addition to his work for AeroTime, he has published on other international media outlets as well, such as CNN, The Points Guy and Airways Magazine. Miquel also worked at the editorial team of Flightglobal and produces Allplane.tv, a site and podcast about the aviation industry and Places of Charm, a travel website.
Miquel has been Deputy Editor at AeroTime since late 2022 and is based in Barcelona, Spain. In addition to his work for AeroTime, he has published on other international media outlets as well, such as CNN, The Points Guy and Airways Magazine. Miquel also worked at the editorial team of Flightglobal and produces Allplane.tv, a site and podcast about the aviation industry and Places of Charm, a travel website.
Zivile Zile
Head of Content
Zivile took up the role of AeroTime News Editor in 2018 and is now Head of Content. Based in Vilnius, Lithuania, she leads our team of journalists, spending much of her time focusing on content and campaigns, recently leading work including our My Covid Story and Women in Aviation campaigns. She also leads creative collaborations and our long-term feature content strategy. Prior to journalism, Zivile worked in Communications. Currently on maternity leave.
Zivile took up the role of AeroTime News Editor in 2018 and is now Head of Content. Based in Vilnius, Lithuania, she leads our team of journalists, spending much of her time focusing on content and campaigns, recently leading work including our My Covid Story and Women in Aviation campaigns. She also leads creative collaborations and our long-term feature content strategy. Prior to journalism, Zivile worked in Communications. Currently on maternity leave.
CONTRIBUTORS
Alec Wignall
Columnist
Alec’s passion for aviation stems from a childhood memory on board the legendary Boeing 747 during a trip to New Zealand. He vividly remembers being captivated by the sheer size of the aircraft and after a tour of the flight deck he decided that flying was his future. On his 16th birthday, Alec had his first flying lesson. In 2018 he started an Integrated ATPL course, relocating to New Zealand for the majority of the training – he describes this as “a truly incredible experience.” After successfully completing training in April 2021, Alec is now waiting to start his commercial flying career. An aviation geek through and through, Alec lives near RAF Valley in Wales, UK and identifies the Mach Loop as firm military plane spotting favourites. Outside of aviation, he is a keen runner and photographer with a zest for travel and has a goal to travel around all 7 continents of the world.
Alec’s passion for aviation stems from a childhood memory on board the legendary Boeing 747 during a trip to New Zealand. He vividly remembers being captivated by the sheer size of the aircraft and after a tour of the flight deck he decided that flying was his future. On his 16th birthday, Alec had his first flying lesson. In 2018 he started an Integrated ATPL course, relocating to New Zealand for the majority of the training – he describes this as “a truly incredible experience.” After successfully completing training in April 2021, Alec is now waiting to start his commercial flying career. An aviation geek through and through, Alec lives near RAF Valley in Wales, UK and identifies the Mach Loop as firm military plane spotting favourites. Outside of aviation, he is a keen runner and photographer with a zest for travel and has a goal to travel around all 7 continents of the world.
Ann Cederhall
Columnist
Ann Cederhall has an extensive record of delivering business value in project and product management roles across the globe, combining a great understanding of both the business and the technology field. Ann has worked with over 20 airlines and leading travel tech brands such as ATPCo, Amadeus, Pros as well as travel tech start-ups. Ann employs her excellent analytical and communication skills to deliver an easy-to-understand message at all levels. Ann is a frequent speaker and panellist at industry events and has published several high noticed articles and white papers in the travel industry press. In addition, she also works as a trainer both with IATA and Aeroclass.
Ann Cederhall has an extensive record of delivering business value in project and product management roles across the globe, combining a great understanding of both the business and the technology field. Ann has worked with over 20 airlines and leading travel tech brands such as ATPCo, Amadeus, Pros as well as travel tech start-ups. Ann employs her excellent analytical and communication skills to deliver an easy-to-understand message at all levels. Ann is a frequent speaker and panellist at industry events and has published several high noticed articles and white papers in the travel industry press. In addition, she also works as a trainer both with IATA and Aeroclass.
Ben Griffiths
Communications Director
Ben Griffiths is a communications director, an aviation writer and an adviser to organisations across the industry. He was named the 2021 ‘Aerospace Communicator of the Year’ in the annual Aviation Media Awards. Ben is a Liveryman of the Honourable Company of Air Pilots and a member of its prestigious Trophies & Awards Committee, as well as an active member of the Air and Space Power Association and the Aviation Focus Group. During 2018 he was seconded to Airbus UK as the Head of Communications, where he helped lead the company’s involvement in the RAF 100 centenary celebrations including its major presence at the Royal International Air Tattoo and Farnborough Air Show. He is a former external panel member of the Civil Aviation Authority’s ‘Aviation Futures’ think tank and the Royal Aeronautical Society’s Policy Committee. One of Ben’s earliest memories is seeing Concorde soaring over London. Since then, aviation has been close to his heart. Having trained as a journalist and specialising in aerospace and defence coverage, Ben has been lucky enough to experience flying more than 30 types of aircraft from vintage trainers to modern military jets. He is a keen private pilot with a particular enthusiasm for historic taildraggers, and co-owns a 1950 de Havilland Chipmunk based at Old Warden, home of the renowned Shuttleworth Collection. In 2012 he fulfilled a childhood ambition by flying the Spitfire for the first time.
Ben Griffiths is a communications director, an aviation writer and an adviser to organisations across the industry. He was named the 2021 ‘Aerospace Communicator of the Year’ in the annual Aviation Media Awards. Ben is a Liveryman of the Honourable Company of Air Pilots and a member of its prestigious Trophies & Awards Committee, as well as an active member of the Air and Space Power Association and the Aviation Focus Group. During 2018 he was seconded to Airbus UK as the Head of Communications, where he helped lead the company’s involvement in the RAF 100 centenary celebrations including its major presence at the Royal International Air Tattoo and Farnborough Air Show. He is a former external panel member of the Civil Aviation Authority’s ‘Aviation Futures’ think tank and the Royal Aeronautical Society’s Policy Committee. One of Ben’s earliest memories is seeing Concorde soaring over London. Since then, aviation has been close to his heart. Having trained as a journalist and specialising in aerospace and defence coverage, Ben has been lucky enough to experience flying more than 30 types of aircraft from vintage trainers to modern military jets. He is a keen private pilot with a particular enthusiasm for historic taildraggers, and co-owns a 1950 de Havilland Chipmunk based at Old Warden, home of the renowned Shuttleworth Collection. In 2012 he fulfilled a childhood ambition by flying the Spitfire for the first time.
Christian Charalambous
Columnist
Christian is a Boeing 767 pilot with global experience, previously flying Boeing 737s and 757s. Beyond the cockpit, he’s led tech startups applying blockchain, AI, and IoT to diverse fields. With degrees in Air Transport Operations and Blockchain, he bridges aviation and tech, exploring challenges, innovations, and future possibilities in his columns.
Christian is a Boeing 767 pilot with global experience, previously flying Boeing 737s and 757s. Beyond the cockpit, he’s led tech startups applying blockchain, AI, and IoT to diverse fields. With degrees in Air Transport Operations and Blockchain, he bridges aviation and tech, exploring challenges, innovations, and future possibilities in his columns.
Dr. Klaus Radermacher
Columnist
Dr. Klaus Radermacher is a seasoned manager, scientist, and consultant with over 35 years of experience. He holds an MS and PhD in computer science with a minor in economics from the University of Karlsruhe (now KIT) and studied at UMass Boston. He spent 15 years in various management roles at a large international corporation. His pioneering work in the holistic analysis and ecological assessment of transportation systems, incorporating infrastructure and physical movement processes into CO2 and energy comparisons, is recognized globally.
Dr. Klaus Radermacher is a seasoned manager, scientist, and consultant with over 35 years of experience. He holds an MS and PhD in computer science with a minor in economics from the University of Karlsruhe (now KIT) and studied at UMass Boston. He spent 15 years in various management roles at a large international corporation. His pioneering work in the holistic analysis and ecological assessment of transportation systems, incorporating infrastructure and physical movement processes into CO2 and energy comparisons, is recognized globally.
Gavin Eccles
Columnist
Gavin has worked across the world to make the link between Aviation and Tourism development. Previous roles have included development in British Airways, as well as consultancy projects for United Airlines, American Airlines, Qantas, and, supporting the development of low-cost airlines to touristic destinations. Gavin has held a Board Position (CCO) of the Portuguese Airline, SATA International, and has been the advisor to the Board of Visit Portugal on air connectivity. As a Professor, Gavin is responsible for programmes spanning the commercial aspects of aviation and airports, and, works closely with Aeroclass on executive courses bringing DMO’s and Airports together for tailored learning programmes that support route development for destinations. Gavin has been awarded a PhD in Strategic Marketing from the University of Surrey and an Honours Degree in Management from Sheffield University.
Gavin has worked across the world to make the link between Aviation and Tourism development. Previous roles have included development in British Airways, as well as consultancy projects for United Airlines, American Airlines, Qantas, and, supporting the development of low-cost airlines to touristic destinations. Gavin has held a Board Position (CCO) of the Portuguese Airline, SATA International, and has been the advisor to the Board of Visit Portugal on air connectivity. As a Professor, Gavin is responsible for programmes spanning the commercial aspects of aviation and airports, and, works closely with Aeroclass on executive courses bringing DMO’s and Airports together for tailored learning programmes that support route development for destinations. Gavin has been awarded a PhD in Strategic Marketing from the University of Surrey and an Honours Degree in Management from Sheffield University.
Gediminas Žiemelis
Chairman of the board of directors of the Avia Solutions Group
Gediminas Žiemelis (born April 4, 1977) is an accomplished Lithuanian entrepreneur, business consultant, and the founder and current Chairman of the Board of Avia Solutions Group, one of the largest global ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance) provider, operating a fleet of 192 aircraft. He was selected twice among the top 40 most talented young industry leaders by Aviation Week & Space Technology. Gediminas is known for his cosmopolitan mindset and exceptional management skills, which have contributed to his success in various business fields. Over his 26-year-long career, Gediminas has founded more than 100 start-ups, 50% of which are still in operation, led companies through 4 successful IPO/SPO processes, and raised over 800 million euros in global public capital and bond markets. In December 2022, Gediminas Ziemelis was listed as the richest Lithuanian by TOP Magazine, with estimated assets worth 1.68 billion euros. Gediminas is the largest donator of Rimantas Kaukenas Support Group, a charity and support fund, that provides help to children with oncological diseases and their families. He is also the biggest shareholder in the leading basketball club Wolves.
Gediminas Žiemelis (born April 4, 1977) is an accomplished Lithuanian entrepreneur, business consultant, and the founder and current Chairman of the Board of Avia Solutions Group, one of the largest global ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance) provider, operating a fleet of 192 aircraft. He was selected twice among the top 40 most talented young industry leaders by Aviation Week & Space Technology. Gediminas is known for his cosmopolitan mindset and exceptional management skills, which have contributed to his success in various business fields. Over his 26-year-long career, Gediminas has founded more than 100 start-ups, 50% of which are still in operation, led companies through 4 successful IPO/SPO processes, and raised over 800 million euros in global public capital and bond markets. In December 2022, Gediminas Ziemelis was listed as the richest Lithuanian by TOP Magazine, with estimated assets worth 1.68 billion euros. Gediminas is the largest donator of Rimantas Kaukenas Support Group, a charity and support fund, that provides help to children with oncological diseases and their families. He is also the biggest shareholder in the leading basketball club Wolves.
Koen Karsbergen
Columnist
Koen Karsbergen, co-founder and principal of Air52 Aviation Consultants, brings over two decades of experience in airline management and strategy to his columns. With an MSc in Aerospace Engineering specializing in Airline Management & Operations, Koen has worked with various airlines and IATA. His global experience spans Europe and the Americas, providing insights into strategic planning, network optimization, and business model innovation. Koen contributes to IATA training courses and serves as faculty for Aviation MBA programs. Through Air52, he assists airlines, airports, and industry stakeholders with practical solutions for complex challenges, drawing on his extensive background in feasibility studies, fleet and network planning, and airline start-ups.
Koen Karsbergen, co-founder and principal of Air52 Aviation Consultants, brings over two decades of experience in airline management and strategy to his columns. With an MSc in Aerospace Engineering specializing in Airline Management & Operations, Koen has worked with various airlines and IATA. His global experience spans Europe and the Americas, providing insights into strategic planning, network optimization, and business model innovation. Koen contributes to IATA training courses and serves as faculty for Aviation MBA programs. Through Air52, he assists airlines, airports, and industry stakeholders with practical solutions for complex challenges, drawing on his extensive background in feasibility studies, fleet and network planning, and airline start-ups.
Michael Barnard
Columnist
Michael is Chief Strategist at TFIE Strategy Inc. He spends his time projecting scenarios for decarbonization 40-80 years into the future, and assisting executives, Boards and investors to pick wisely today. Whether it’s refueling aviation, grid storage, vehicle-to-grid, or hydrogen demand, his work is based on fundamentals of physics, economics and human nature, and informed by the decarbonization requirements and innovations of multiple domains. His leadership positions in North America, Asia and Latin America enhanced his global point of view. He publishes regularly in multiple outlets on innovation, business, technology and policy.
Michael is Chief Strategist at TFIE Strategy Inc. He spends his time projecting scenarios for decarbonization 40-80 years into the future, and assisting executives, Boards and investors to pick wisely today. Whether it’s refueling aviation, grid storage, vehicle-to-grid, or hydrogen demand, his work is based on fundamentals of physics, economics and human nature, and informed by the decarbonization requirements and innovations of multiple domains. His leadership positions in North America, Asia and Latin America enhanced his global point of view. He publishes regularly in multiple outlets on innovation, business, technology and policy.
Rodrigue Trano
Columnist
Having occupied various executive positions within the airline industry in Europe, Rodrigue is now currently based in Vietnam where he officiates as regional sales manager for Asia Pacific at BAA Training Vietnam. When he is not flying in Asia, Rodrigue is leveraging his extensive aviation knowledge and experiences through articles for Aerotime.
Having occupied various executive positions within the airline industry in Europe, Rodrigue is now currently based in Vietnam where he officiates as regional sales manager for Asia Pacific at BAA Training Vietnam. When he is not flying in Asia, Rodrigue is leveraging his extensive aviation knowledge and experiences through articles for Aerotime.
Vilma Vaitiekunaite
CEO of Skyllence
Vilma Vaitiekunaite is a seasoned aviation communication expert with a rich background in aviation, corporate communications, and international relations. With a passion for storytelling and a knack for captivating audiences, she excels in crisis communications, public relations, media outreach, and corporate messaging. During her four-year tenure as Chief Communications Officer at Avia Solutions Group, a global aviation services leader, Vilma played a pivotal role in shaping the company’s communications strategy. Her experience extends to national and international projects, consistently delivering outstanding results. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Vilma is deeply committed to human rights causes, actively supporting various NGOs. This dedication extends from her role as CEO at Skyllence, a renowned international passenger air charter company, to her independent board memberships. Under Vilma’s leadership, Skyllence has risen as a trusted air charter service provider. Her extensive aviation industry experience, coupled with her strong communication skills, has driven the company’s growth and fostered valuable partnerships. As CEO, Vilma ensures the highest standards of safety, efficiency, and customer satisfaction. Vilma Vaitiekunaite’s visionary approach to public relations, coupled with her dedication to human rights and aviation leadership, make her a valuable columnist for AeroTime. Expect insightful articles that provide market knowledge and valuable aviation insights.
Vilma Vaitiekunaite is a seasoned aviation communication expert with a rich background in aviation, corporate communications, and international relations. With a passion for storytelling and a knack for captivating audiences, she excels in crisis communications, public relations, media outreach, and corporate messaging. During her four-year tenure as Chief Communications Officer at Avia Solutions Group, a global aviation services leader, Vilma played a pivotal role in shaping the company’s communications strategy. Her experience extends to national and international projects, consistently delivering outstanding results. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Vilma is deeply committed to human rights causes, actively supporting various NGOs. This dedication extends from her role as CEO at Skyllence, a renowned international passenger air charter company, to her independent board memberships. Under Vilma’s leadership, Skyllence has risen as a trusted air charter service provider. Her extensive aviation industry experience, coupled with her strong communication skills, has driven the company’s growth and fostered valuable partnerships. As CEO, Vilma ensures the highest standards of safety, efficiency, and customer satisfaction. Vilma Vaitiekunaite’s visionary approach to public relations, coupled with her dedication to human rights and aviation leadership, make her a valuable columnist for AeroTime. Expect insightful articles that provide market knowledge and valuable aviation insights.