Manta Aircraft has appointed a new board of directors from former Agusta Westland top managers, including Giuseppe Orsi, Fabio Nannoni and Sergio Biganzoli, as well as Eugenio Cremascoli from Avionord.
Manta Aircraft has an ongoing commitment to enhance corporate governance, foster innovation, and drive further growth. The newly appointed board brings together a diverse group of experienced professionals and experts who boast a track record in aviation top management, aircraft design, marketing, and operations.
A primary focus is to secure the next financing round to finalise the platform design, develop core subsystems, and produce two full-scale prototypes.
Manta Aircraft CEO Lucas Marchesini said: “Our continuous growth and progress demanded this targeted realignment for impending milestones and we welcome these aviation heavyweights, who bring valuable expertise and know-how to our company.”
After graduating in Aeronautical Engineering at the Polytechnic of Milan, Giuseppe Orsi started his career in 1973 with SIAI Marchetti. After the firm was incorporated in Agusta, he was appointed to hold a series of key management positions of home and international operations, including the joint venture with Bell Helicopters for the BA (then AW) 609 Tilt-rotor program.
Fabio Nannoni received his Masters degree in Aeronautical Engineering from Politecnico di Torino in 1982. During his career he developed more than 50 proprietary codes in the field of helicopter flight science and analysis, which are still actively used in the company’s design process.
Sergio Biganzoli served as CFO of AgustaWestland for nearly eight years, a role at one of the world’s most significant helicopter companies, and brings additional experience in financial management and consultancy, including within the aerospace industry.
Eugenio Cremascoli has successfully led several enterprises in the health and medical sectors, from incorporation till maturity. NGC Medical Spa was acquired by Medtronic Inc. He currently owns and manages Columbus Clinic in Milan.
Since 2008 he also leads the steady growth of Avionord, based in Milan Linate airport, operating 7 business jets. Avionord medical division is the main national player in the transportation of transplantation organs.
With a Master’s degree in Aeronautical Engineering from Politecnico di Milano and an MBA from SDA Bocconi, Lucas Marchesini has been involved in aviation, both professionally and as a competitive glider pilot and light aircraft pilot.
With over 30 years of experience providing engineering and design services for renowned automotive manufacturers and motorsport collaborations, Juanjo Espinosa brings a wealth of experience in transport vehicles design and development.
Manta Aircraft started developing its family of hybrid-electrical vertical and short take-off and landing (HeV/STOL) aircraft in 2021 with a 1:3 scale demonstrator used to test basic flying characteristics.
