Data-sharing Leader Shahidi To Take Helm at FSF

Flight Safety Foundation (FSF) named Hassan Shahidi, a 35-year aviation veteran who has played a leading role in aviation data-sharing efforts, to take the reins as president and CEO, beginning in January. Shahidi is succeeding Jon Beatty, who steered the global aviation safety organization over the past four years. Beatty, a former United Technologies and International Aero Engines executive, will assist in the leadership transition through the end of January.

Shahidi is a long-time executive at Mitre Corp., most recently serving as director of aviation safety and new entrants integration. He helped develop the Aviation Safety Information Analysis and Sharing (ASIAS) capability and worked to extend the data-sharing concept to Asia-Pacific through the AP-Share initiative, a collaboration that includes FSF.

FSF announced the appointment during its 71st annual International Air Safety Summit this week in Seattle. “Dr. Shahidi brings unique and deep experience in evidence-based approaches to safety, which is critical to maintain and improve our stellar record in all aspects of aviation,” said John Hamilton, vice president of engineering at Boeing Commercial Airplanes and chairman of the Foundation Board of Governors.

Hamilton further praised Beatty’s leadership at FSF. “He set the leadership bar high and really put the Foundation on sound financial footing while improving our membership base.”