International Airlines Group has launched its global accelerator programme, Hangar 51.

Start-ups are invited to pitch to join Hangar 51 and work with one of the world’s largest airline groups, creating next generation travel experiences and finding solutions to real business challenges through lasting and collaborative partnerships. 

Working with corporate innovation specialist and early-stage investor L Marks, the initiative will support the development of new entrepreneurs to transform the aviation industry and revolutionise customer experience through new technology, products and services.

The ten-week programme, based at IAG’s headquarters in London, will enable start-ups looking to enter the aviation industry to trial their products globally and receive mentoring from the group’s senior management team.

This will help them to rapidly accelerate their product development as well as gain access to real customer insights from experts and funding from IAG and L Marks.

The programme will focus on four areas:

• Improving airport processes: making customer journeys through the airport easier.
• Digitising business processes: developing new tools and processes to speed-up and simplify the business.
• Data driven decisions:  finding new ways that data can increase customer satisfaction and create business value.
• Wildcard: any idea that start-ups believe can improve customer experience.

Glenn Morgan, IAG head of digital transformation, said: “This brand new programme will bringing cutting edge digital start-ups into the heart of our business.

“We want them to tell us what we don’t know.

“If start-ups have something that can be applied to our industry to help our customers then we want to hear from them.

“This initiative is a great opportunity for early stage businesses to fast-track their innovative ideas by working closely with IAG.

“We’ll fully support them through mentoring and funding to improve customer journeys with new disruptive and innovative ideas.”

IAG is the parent company of Aer Lingus, British Airways, Iberia, Vueling, IAG Cargo and Avios.

Stuart Marks, technology entrepreneur and Chairman of L Marks added: “Hangar 51 is offering a fantastic opportunity for start-ups to trial their products and tech within one of the world’s leading aviation companies as well as give them access to the best mentors and an environment where they can develop their ideas.

“We are excited to be working with IAG on this project to help them innovate in their business and strengthen their already excellent service offering.”

Start-ups from around the world can now submit their applications to join Hangar 51 here.

Applications will close at midnight GMT on November 6th, 2016.