One Aircraft.
Any Mission. Anywhere.
OnwardAir is developing the Vertex VTOL™ and modular FLEX Pods™—our patented, multi-mission aviation system designed to maximize aircraft utilization, reduce cost per mile, and unlock new logistics and operational capabilities.
Designed to Fly More.
Earn More. Sit Less.
Vertex VTOL™
Vertex VOLTTM is amodular aircraft built around quick-release FLEX PodsTM, supporting multiple missions and revenue streams through rapid reconfiguration.
FLEX Pod™
OnwardAir System
Revolutionizing middle-mile logistics
≤ 15 min
Turnaround Time
1,000+ lb
Payload Capacity
150 - 400+ nm
Hybrid range
Vertex VTOL™: Built to Perform Where Others Can’t
Built for Missions Without Borders
FLEX Pods™:
The Key to Continuous Operations
One Platform. Multiple Missions.
Offshore Energy & Remote Sites
Direct, point-to-point cargo delivery with rapid pod swaps that keep aircraft flying and costs low.
Air Medical & Emergency Response
Air Medical & Emergency Response
Humanitarian & Disaster Relief
Middle-Mile Cargo
Defense & ISR
Safety by Design
Inherent Redundancy Through System Separation
Decoupling lift systems from forward propulsion eliminates single points of dependency and enables controlled flight in the event of a system failure.
Smart Redundancy Improves Fault Tolerance
Redundancy embedded across critical systems increases fault tolerance and prevents single-point failures.
Patent-Pending AI-Enabled Emergency Systems
Real-time monitoring enables rapid decision-making to support emergency landings and collision avoidance.
Ballistic Parachute System
An additional safeguard capable of bringing the entire aircraft safely to the ground in extreme scenarios.
Conventional Landing Gear
The Vertex VTOL™ can operate from traditional runways, adding an additional layer of operational flexibility and safety.
Our mission is simple: every occupant returns safely to the ground—every single flight.
Minds Behind OnwardAir
OnwardAir is led by a deeply experienced team of engineers, pilots, operators, and advisors with backgrounds spanning advanced aircraft development, human spaceflight, defense programs, and mission-critical aviation systems.
Monte Mann serves as OnwardAir’s Comptroller and Senior Project Manager, bringing disciplined financial oversight and proven leadership shaped through military service and senior management roles across multiple industries. His unique combination of financial acumen, project management expertise, and team development skills ensures OnwardAir maintains fiscal discipline while executing complex aerospace programs.
A U.S. Navy veteran, Monte held positions of significant responsibility in theater operations before transitioning to the commercial sector, where he has led teams across healthcare, software and app development, and aerospace industries. His military background instilled exceptional organizational discipline and the ability to perform under pressure—traits that translate directly to managing the financial and operational complexities of aircraft development.
Monte is passionate about mentoring and coaching cross-functional teams to achieve their goals and reach ever-higher levels of performance. His hands-on leadership style and broad industry experience enable him to bridge financial management with project execution, ensuring resources are allocated effectively while keeping programs on schedule and budget. His commitment to team development and operational excellence supports OnwardAir’s mission of delivering innovative aviation technology.
Dr. Scott Parazynski is a physician, veteran NASA astronaut, and founder/CEO of OnwardAir. A serial entrepreneur and inventor, he has pioneered advanced human-machine interfaces that control everything from surgical robotics to eVTOL aircraft.
During five Space Shuttle missions and seven spacewalks, Dr. Parazynski played a critical role in assembling the International Space Station and executed one of the most challenging in-space repairs in NASA history. In recognition of his contributions to spaceflight and society, he was inducted into the US Astronaut Hall of Fame in 2016. A true explorer, Dr. Parazynski made history as the first person to both fly in space and summit Mount Everest—a testament to his exceptional determination and ability to overcome extreme challenges.
His innovations in medical technology have led to breakthrough devices across cardiovascular, orthopedic, and interventional pain management fields, with multiple products achieving FDA clearance. As a commercial-rated pilot with over 3,000 flight hours across diverse aircraft, Dr. Parazynski brings unparalleled expertise to developing the world’s safest and most economical hybrid-electric aviation solutions.
Dan Wax leads supply chain management for OnwardAir, bringing over 40 years of executive leadership in multi-site manufacturing, global sourcing, and operational excellence. His proven ability to build resilient supply chains and scale operations makes him essential to OnwardAir’s mission of delivering cutting-edge hybrid-electric aircraft.
Dan has successfully led organizations with revenues up to $40 million, consistently driving cost transformation, margin improvement, and sustained growth across complex industrial environments. Known for building high-performing teams and implementing Lean manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives, he has delivered measurable results in demanding production settings. His expertise in global sourcing and vendor management ensures OnwardAir maintains the quality, efficiency, and scalability required for aerospace innovation.
Brian Whiteside serves as OnwardAir’s Chief Operating Officer, bringing invaluable expertise in aviation certification and regulatory compliance. Most notably, Brian led Amazon Prime Air’s groundbreaking FAA certification program, positioning him as an expert in certifying novel aircraft and autonomous aviation systems—experience that is directly critical to OnwardAir’s mission.
A US Navy veteran with over 15 years of aerospace leadership, Brian possesses deep expertise in safety-critical systems development and certification regulations including Part 23, 25, 27, 29, and Special Category Aircraft 21.17(b). His career has focused on developing clean-sheet aircraft from concept through certification, with repeated success directing engineering teams of over 200 personnel on multi-billion-dollar aviation programs. He has developed compliance methodologies that accelerate certification timelines while authoring significant FAA- and EASA-compliant documentation.
Brian pioneered the certification framework for beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) operations for unmanned systems now operating commercially throughout the US. His proven ability to scale organizations, navigate complex regulatory landscapes, and certify revolutionary aircraft makes him essential to bringing the Vertex VTOL from concept to commercial operation.
Eric Pulaski serves as OnwardAir’s fractional CFO, bringing over 35 years of entrepreneurial and financial leadership experience guiding technology companies through every stage of growth. His track record leading startups from inception through IPO, managing complex M&A transactions, and delivering successful exits make him an invaluable strategic advisor as OnwardAir scales its innovative aviation technology.
A serial entrepreneur, Eric has led software and SaaS companies through startup launch, hyper-growth, turnaround situations, and successful acquisitions. He has managed P&Ls ranging from $800K to over $80M and scaled organizations from three-person startups to public companies with more than 800 global employees. His most successful exit exceeded $200M, demonstrating his ability to build substantial shareholder value.
Eric’s expertise extends beyond traditional CFO responsibilities. He excels at building and retaining high-performing teams, shaping technical vision and product strategy, and providing steady leadership through periods of rapid growth and change. His skills in evangelism, communication, and managing shareholder and investor relationships are particularly valuable as OnwardAir raises capital and builds partnerships to bring the Vertex VTOL to market. His breadth of experience ensures OnwardAir has the financial discipline and strategic guidance needed to achieve the company’s long-term objectives.
Mike Teeter serves as OnwardAir’s senior mechanical engineer, bringing 40 years of hands-on engineering, leadership, and quality assurance experience across aerospace, military, medical, energy, and government sectors. His unique combination of deep technical knowledge and exceptional fabrication skills makes him invaluable in translating innovative designs into flyable hardware.
Mike’s expertise spans critical aerospace applications including shock and vibration analysis for aircraft engines, precision gimbals, electro-mechanical testing, and advanced instrumentation systems. He is well-versed in aerospace quality and manufacturing standards, ensuring OnwardAir’s designs meet the rigorous demands of aviation certification. Known for creative problem-solving and “thinking outside the box,” Mike excels at finding elegant engineering solutions to complex challenges.
A true builder at heart, Mike’s passion for wood and metal fabrication, machining, and restoring classic vehicles translates directly into his ability to rapidly prototype and refine aircraft components—bridging the gap between engineering theory and physical reality.
Keven Coates serves as OnwardAir’s Senior Electrical Engineer, bringing a rare combination of advanced electrical and mechanical expertise that proves invaluable in developing complex vehicles like the Vertex VTOL. His multidisciplinary skill set allows him to seamlessly integrate electrical systems with mechanical structures and mechanisms, ensuring optimal performance across all aircraft systems.
Keven specializes in embedded microprocessor designs and is an expert in battery safety, battery technologies, and battery management solutions. His other specialties include motor control, power electronics, noise, and heat management. He is also experienced in processor firmware and high reliability systems. He’s worked for a variety of companies in everything from avionics to space electronics, including 20 years at Texas Instruments.
With experience across diverse industries and markets, Keven brings proven expertise in taking products from concept through production, including test development. His ability to work across electrical and mechanical domains makes him essential to the Vertex VTOL’s development, where every system must work in perfect harmony to achieve safe, efficient flight.
Jon Fenner serves as OnwardAir’s Senior R&D Engineer, bringing rare multidisciplinary expertise that spans the full technology stack—from microelectronics and robotics hardware to advanced software systems. His ability to seamlessly transition between hardware design and software development supports the development of integrated systems required for next-generation aviation.
Jon’s technical depth is particularly strong in artificial intelligence and cybersecurity—two critical domains for modern aircraft systems. His AI expertise enables development of intelligent flight control algorithms and predictive maintenance systems, while his security specialization ensures OnwardAir’s avionics and communications remain protected against evolving cyber threats. Combined with hands-on experience in microelectronics and robotics, Jon brings a holistic approach to solving complex engineering challenges.
With a distinguished academic background in Computer Science and Engineering, Jon has delivered successful projects across diverse industries including healthcare, financial services, and insurance, working with organizations such as Anthem Healthcare, Bank of America, and Nationwide Insurance. His experience bridging hardware innovation with software sophistication positions him to drive breakthrough R&D initiatives at OnwardAir.
David Colling serves as OnwardAir’s Senior Aerospace Engineer, bringing a lifelong passion for flight that began with RC aircraft as a boy and evolved into a 30-year distinguished career designing full-scale aircraft. His journey from national RC champion to industry veteran demonstrates the depth of his aerodynamic intuition and hands-on engineering excellence.
David’s career includes work on over a dozen aircraft programs at Cessna, followed by positions at Boeing, Lockheed Martin, and NASA. His expertise spans the complete aircraft development lifecycle: aerodynamics, laminar flow design, aeroacoustics, propeller design, composite materials, flight test engineering, flight control systems, FAA certification, and structural design using FEA and CFD analysis. At NASA, he contributed to space shuttle and International Space Station programs, specializing in guidance, navigation, control, and safety systems.
A true aviation enthusiast, David has built and owned seven aircraft including sailplanes, kit planes, and a high-performance Lancair IV—giving him invaluable perspective on what makes aircraft both manufacturable and flyable. This rare combination of championship-level piloting skill, hands-on building experience, and world-class engineering expertise makes him essential to developing OnwardAir’s innovative Vertex VTOL.
Justin Dodrill serves as OnwardAir’s Senior Software Engineer, bringing an exceptional blend of technical innovation, business strategy, and AI expertise. His combination of deep software architecture knowledge and entrepreneurial vision makes him instrumental in developing intelligent systems for OnwardAir’s hybrid-electric aircraft.
As a Principal Software and Data Architect with 30 years of experience, Justin excels at creating sophisticated SaaS, AI/ML, and data management solutions. His expertise in machine learning systems and advanced automation is critical as aviation increasingly relies on intelligent flight systems and predictive analytics.
Justin’s business acumen is equally impressive. As co-founder of Humble Hearts, LLC, he led the company to Microsoft Partner status and over one million units sold, demonstrating his ability to translate technical innovation into commercial success. This unique fusion of creative problem-solving, AI mastery, and commercial insight ensures OnwardAir’s software solutions are both technically excellent and strategically aligned with market goals.
Anuj Kumar serves as OnwardAir’s CFD Analyst and Aerospace Engineer, bringing specialized expertise in VTOL UAV design, optimization, and advanced computational fluid dynamics simulation. His deep understanding of aerodynamic analysis and airflow modeling is critical to refining the Vertex VTOL’s performance, efficiency, and flight characteristics.
Prior to joining OnwardAir, Anuj worked as an Aircraft Design Engineer at Techeagle Innovation Pvt. Ltd., where he honed his skills in electric VTOL aircraft development—experience directly applicable to OnwardAir’s hybrid-electric mission. His technical foundation was strengthened through work at IISc’s prestigious NMCAD Labs, where he gained expertise in cutting-edge aerodynamic simulation and computational methods.
Anuj’s innovative mindset extends beyond technical analysis. He has been recognized at the SAEC’s Study Australia Entrepreneurship Challenge, demonstrating his ability to think creatively about aerospace challenges and contribute to OnwardAir’s mission of developing breakthrough aviation technology. His combination of rigorous CFD expertise and innovative problem-solving makes him an invaluable asset to the engineering team.
General Duncan J. McNabb, USAF (Ret.) advises OnwardAir on the strategic application of the company’s middle-mile aircraft to support U.S. warfighters and enhance global supply chain operations. As a retired four-star general with unparalleled expertise in military logistics and transportation, he provides invaluable guidance on how OnwardAir’s innovative aviation technology can meet critical defense and humanitarian mission requirements.
General McNabb served as the ninth Commander of United States Transportation Command (TRANSCOM) from 2008 to 2011, overseeing the global air, land, and sea transportation infrastructure that sustains US military operations worldwide. This experience positions him uniquely to identify how hybrid-electric middle-mile aircraft can address gaps in military logistics, disaster relief, and expeditionary operations. He previously served as the 33rd Vice Chief of Staff of the Air Force, the service’s second-highest-ranking officer.
An accomplished Air Force pilot with over 5,400 flight hours, General McNabb brings both strategic vision and practical aviation expertise to OnwardAir. His deep understanding of military logistics challenges, combined with his operational experience, ensures OnwardAir’s aircraft designs meet the demanding requirements of defense applications while also serving commercial markets. His leadership helps position OnwardAir to become a vital supplier of next-generation logistics solutions for both military and civilian operations.
Dylan Taylor serves as an aerospace advisor to OnwardAir, bringing exceptional expertise in space exploration, advanced aerospace technologies, and venture capital. As Chairman of Voyager Space (NYSE: VOYG), a multi-national space exploration company building the next generation of space infrastructure, Dylan provides OnwardAir with strategic insights into aerospace innovation and access to a powerful network spanning government and commercial space sectors.
Under Dylan’s leadership, Voyager Space serves diverse client sectors including Civil Space (NASA), National Security (Space Force, DoD, Space Command), and Commercial Space—experience that translates directly to understanding regulatory environments, government procurement, and dual-use technology applications relevant to OnwardAir’s aviation solutions. His ability to navigate complex aerospace markets and build partnerships across military, civil, and commercial domains makes him an invaluable strategic resource.
A philanthropist, angel investor, and commercial astronaut, Dylan flew above the Kármán Line with Blue Origin in 2021, joining the ranks of space explorers while also actively investing in breakthrough aerospace ventures. His unique perspective as both an operator and investor, combined with his firsthand experience pushing the boundaries of human flight, positions him to guide OnwardAir through the challenges and opportunities of revolutionizing aviation technology.
Cameron Burr is an aviation industry expert and investor who provides strategic guidance to OnwardAir, bringing decades of executive leadership and deep expertise in corporate development, marketing, and aviation finance. His extensive network and proven track record building value in aviation companies make him a trusted advisor as OnwardAir scales its operations and pursues strategic partnerships.
Throughout his distinguished career, Cameron has served in senior executive roles across multiple aviation companies. He was Executive Vice President of Corporate Development and Marketing at AvioServ, Senior Vice President of Corporate Development and Managing Director at Aerothrust Corporation, and held multiple leadership positions at POGO Jet, Inc. His consistent focus on corporate development and strategic growth demonstrates his ability to identify opportunities, structure deals, and position aviation companies for success.
Currently serving as Managing Director at Jet Capital, Cameron brings sophisticated aviation investment expertise and industry insights that help OnwardAir navigate the complexities of bringing revolutionary aircraft technology to market. His understanding of aviation business models, capital markets, and industry dynamics positions him to guide OnwardAir through critical growth stages and strategic opportunities.
Rick Perez is a recycling and greentech pioneer who serves as an investor and advisor to OnwardAir, bringing 30 years of sustainability expertise and a deep commitment to environmental innovation. As founder and leader of 1588 Ventures, Rick provides strategic guidance on sustainable business practices and cleantech market dynamics—insights that are invaluable as OnwardAir develops hybrid-electric aircraft to reduce aviation’s environmental impact.
A Mexican American entrepreneur, Rick has built his career at the intersection of environmental stewardship and business success, pioneering approaches to sustainable waste management that have transformed industry practices. His understanding of regulatory frameworks, environmental markets, and the commercialization of green technologies positions him to guide OnwardAir through the unique challenges of bringing sustainable aviation solutions to market.
Rick’s passion for environmental innovation aligns perfectly with OnwardAir’s mission to revolutionize aviation through cleaner, more efficient flight. His experience scaling sustainable businesses and his network within the greentech investment community make him a strategic asset as OnwardAir advances technologies that will help decarbonize the aviation industry.
Dr. Christopher Tucker is a technology strategist and social entrepreneur with deep expertise at the intersection of emerging technology, national security, and innovation. He currently manages Yale House Ventures, a portfolio of social ventures and technology companies with particular focus on energy, geospatial intelligence, and sensor technologies. His investment thesis and advisory work reflect decades of experience identifying and scaling transformative technologies with real-world impact.
Prior to Yale House Ventures, Dr. Tucker served as Chief Strategic Officer at In-Q-Tel, the CIA’s venture capital arm, where he shaped technology strategy for the U.S. intelligence community. He has advised Columbia University and founded MapStory.org, a pioneering open platform for geospatial storytelling. He holds a PhD from Columbia University.
Dr. Tucker brings to OnwardAir a rare combination of strategic vision, national security perspective, and hands-on experience evaluating breakthrough technologies—making him an invaluable voice as we develop the next generation of hybrid electric VTOL aircraft for demanding logistics and mobility applications.
Chris Tucker
Yale House Ventures, Advisor
Dr. Gabriel Mena serves as a strategic advisor to OnwardAir, bringing extensive expertise in international business development and global market expansion. His deep experience in healthcare innovation and cross-border ventures makes him instrumental in guiding OnwardAir’s strategic planning and worldwide growth initiatives.
Dr. Mena is a Professor in the Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, with a joint appointment as Professor in the Department of Thoracic & Cardiovascular Surgery. He serves on the Board of Directors and Managing Board of RAMSES (Robotic Assisted and Microsurgical Endoscopic Society) and is a member of the Scientific Board of Advisors for TMCx, the Texas Medical Center’s premier life science startup accelerator. His extensive network and proven track record in healthcare and medical technology ventures across Latin America and global markets provide invaluable insights for OnwardAir’s international expansion.
Build the Future of Flight
Open Position's
Chief Systems Engineer
Flight Systems · Texas / Hybrid
Aerospace Engineer (Flight Control)
Flight Systems · Texas / Hybrid
Electrical Engineer (Power Systems)
Flight Systems · Texas / Hybrid
Your Questions, Answered
Everything you need to know about OnwardAir.
What is OnwardAir?
OnwardAir is an aerospace innovation company revolutionizing tactical resupply and middle-mile logistics. We are the creators of the Vertex VTOLTM, a modular aircraft platform designed under the philosophy: “One Aircraft. Any Mission. Anywhere.” Led by veteran NASA astronaut and CEO Scott Parazynski, MD, our team combines decades of experience in aerospace, military aviation, and automated logistics.
What makes the Vertex VTOLTM platform unique?
The core differentiator is our FLEX PodTM modularity. Unlike traditional static aircraft, the Vertex VTOLTM can transform for different mission profiles—cargo, medical, or tactical—in minutes. Key technical advantages include:
- FLEX Ground Support Vehicles: Maximize aircraft utilization by minimizing downtime.
- Proprietary Lift Fans: 30% more efficient than standard counterparts.
- Combat-Grade Materials: Designed for survivability in demanding environments.
- Small Footprint: Novel deployable aerosurfaces allow for operation from a “2-car garage apron,” accessing tight landing zones that helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft cannot reach.
How does OnwardAir address current gaps in military logistics?
- Tactical Resupply: Delivering cargo to inaccessible locations with reduced noise and energy signatures.
- Austere Operations: Capable of Arctic to Tropical temperature ranges and day/night VFR operations.
- Aeromedical Evacuation: Air ambulance and critical medical resupply are possible with a specially outfitted FLEX PodTM.
- Reconnaissance: We are deepening military partnerships to use our 1/3 scale eVTOLs for reconnaissance and logistics, offering high mission effectiveness with minimal risk.
Is the platform capable of Medical Evacuation (MEDEVAC)?
- Range: 150 nm (eVTOL mode) / 400+ nm (hVTOL mode)
- Endurance: 1 hour + 15′ reserve (eVTOL) / 3+ hours (hVTOL)
- Airspeed: 120+ KIAS
- Survivability: Rugged construction for high survivability
How does the Vertex VTOLTM integrate into existing supply chains?
We prioritize seamless integration. Our modular fuselage is optimized for standard shipping containers, allowing our aircraft to slot directly into existing ground and warehouse workflows. We utilize AI-driven logistics analytics for route optimization and automated systems for quick loading/unloading to ensure fast turnaround times.
Can OnwardAir operate in adverse weather conditions?
Reliability is central to our design. We aim to conduct advanced weather resilience testing to ensure all-weather, year-round operation, even to remote destinations. This reliability is critical for time-sensitive commercial logistics and emergency medical services.
What is the "Middle-Mile" opportunity?
OnwardAir is positioned to revolutionize middle-mile logistics by connecting major distribution hubs to difficult-to-reach end points. By bypassing traditional infrastructure bottlenecks, we offer partners significant efficiency gains and cost reductions in logistics networks.
What is the market opportunity?
OnwardAir leverages a Dual-Use Tech Advantage, de-risking investment by serving two massive, growing markets simultaneously:
- Defense Logistics: A $47.8 billion annual market with increasing demand for austere environment capabilities.
- Commercial eVTOL: A market projected to grow from $4.28B (2025) to $170.6B by 2034 (54.95% CAGR).
What is the status of OnwardAir’s Intellectual Property (IP)?
We have built a robust defensive moat around our technology:
- 25+ Issued Patents with multiple provisional patents filed and non-provisional applications in queue
- 30+ New Technology areas under advanced development
- Significant IP covering Motion Control (Patented 4-DoF controller), automated logistics integration, and surgical robotics applications.
Why is now the right time to invest?
We are capitalizing on strong regulatory tailwinds, including recent FAA powered-lift rules and the 2025 eVTOL Integration Pilot Program. As a “Fast Follower” to early air taxi companies, we benefit from their regulatory groundwork while deploying a more versatile, logistics-first platform with immediate military applications.
How can I learn more?
Strategic investors may request an NDA to access detailed technology specifications and partnership opportunities.
Partner with OnwardAir
Whether you’re an operator, investor, supplier, or strategic partner, we’d like to hear from you. Reach out and explore how we can transform aviation together.