British Airways Parent IAG Launches €200M Airline Innovation Fund
International Airlines Group (IAG), the parent company of British Airways, Iberia, and Aer Lingus, has unveiled IAGi Ventures, a corporate venture arm aimed at accelerating airline innovation. As part of the initiative, IAG has also rebranded its external innovation platform Hangar 51 as IAGi.
IAGi Ventures plans to invest €200 million over the next five years, focusing on early-stage startups that enhance aviation technology, sustainability, and customer experience. Jorge Saco, IAG’s chief information, procurement, services, and innovation officer, emphasized the group’s commitment to staying ahead in aviation innovation.
“We aim to collaborate with leading innovators to improve operations and add value for our customers,” said Saco. “By combining venturing with our accelerator program, we will work with top startups addressing industry challenges.”
IAG has already fostered over 100 startup partnerships since launching Hangar 51 in 2016. The IAGi accelerator program, hosted in November, focused on sustainability, operational efficiency, and airport technology. The company’s rebranding reflects a deeper commitment to strategic collaborations in aviation innovation.
While only a handful of airlines actively invest in startups, IAG joins industry leaders like JetBlue Ventures and United Airlines, which have launched dedicated funds supporting emerging technologies and sustainable aviation.
With €200 million earmarked for innovation, IAG is positioning itself at the forefront of airline technology advancements, ensuring its brands remain competitive in a rapidly evolving industry.
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