Dr Gary Clark to head up newly formed AHUK Civil Business
His experience both within Airbus Helicopters and the wider Airbus Group will strengthen the UK business, helping to support the company’s continued mission to improve customer satisfaction.
Courtesy Airbus / photo Antonia Gigg
Dr Clark (above) joins the UK team having successfully led the Airbus Helicopters Vehicle Test and Integration team since 2011. In this role, he oversaw the integration of the French and German teams in 2015 and was responsible for the delivery of major Airbus Helicopters projects, including the Dynamic Helicopter Zero facility – a critical element in the maturity programme of the H160.
Colin James, Managing Director at Airbus Helicopters UK Ltd. said “Gary’s appointment is a major win for us in the UK as he brings both technical expertise and people and programme management skills. His contribution will be invaluable to future growth and sustainability of the business.”
Dr Clark’s 10 years’ experience within the wider Airbus Group began when he joined Airbus’ Design office in Toulouse as part of the Top Flight Entry Programme and from where he contributed to a number of European research projects focused on future aircraft concepts. In 2008, he moved to Airbus Operations in Filton to join the A350 Wing Programme Team where he was instrumental in the successful completion of the design and build phase of the programme and delivery of the first wing assemblies. His move to Airbus Helicopters in 2011 was, in part, the result of an early passion for rotorcraft during his time as a student.
Dr Gary Clark completed a PhD thesis in Helicopter Handling Qualities through a joint venture between the University of Liverpool and the French Aeronautics and Space Research Center (ONERA), and also holds a Master’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Liverpool.
Airbus Helicopters has been present in the United Kingdom for 40 years and is the UK’s largest civil helicopter company with more than 430 aircraft operating in civil, military and emergency services roles.
The company’s site at Oxford Airport is home to Britain’s Civil Helicopter Hub, while sites at Aberdeen, Belfast, Dublin and Hawarden support customers across the British Isles.