South Africa's Pegasus Universal Aerospace, pioneer of the Vertical Business Jet (VBJ®) Pegasus One, has named Robbie Irons as its Chief Executive Officer. In this new role, Robbie will help lead product development and lend strategic support to Founder and Chairman Dr Reza Mia as the business seeks to secure investment.

This important appointment coincides with confirmation that a series of prospective investor evenings are to be scheduled for September through to November this year, initially in Johannesburg. Further opportunities to invest in the programme, online, will be available for potential investors based nationally within South Africa and internationally.

Robbie Irons brings decades of solid international aviation experience to the Johannesburg, SA-based start-up, spanning senior roles previously with ExecuJet in Lanseria in both business development and aircraft sales. He took responsibility for the firm's aircraft sales activity in Africa in 2009.

havin forged relationships with HNWI's; senior industry personalities; Presidents and Ministers on the continent, Robbie seized the opportunity in 2012 to establish a consultancy firm, Irons Aviation, specializing in turn-key aviation solutions and infrastructure projects. He helped entrepreneurs Nicky and Jonathan Oppenheimer develop and implement South Africa's first exclusive VVIP FBO facility, Fireblade Aviation, at Johannesburg's OR Tambo International Airport, becoming a Board director of the firm in 2013. He also helped Liftec, the independent, exclusive Bombardier sales representative, active in 10 regions, establish a new territory in Africa.

"As general aviation evolves, I am excited to become actively involved with the innovative Pegasus One," said Robbie, who was with Dr Reza in EBACE in Geneva for the programme's international debut. The two have been friends for many years. "I am delighted Robbie has agreed to come on board. havin him as a partner is a major asset," he commented.