Operators first, financiers second.

Frederico Fernandes brings unparalleled expertise in aviation innovation and strategic business development to IAE as Deputy CEO, combining his extensive background as an accomplished aviation consultant, investor, and technology catalyst with proven leadership in transforming aviation enterprises. Equipped with a Master of Science in Air Transport Management from the University of London, Frederico possesses deep academic knowledge complementing his practical experience in aviation operations and strategy. Based in Dubai and originally from Portugal, Frederico serves as Associate Partner at WIZE, a leading aviation and tourism consulting firm, and as founding partner of Futuravia VC, positioning him at the forefront of aviation investment and innovation trends. His remarkable track record includes directing GIAS, the world-leading investment in aviation platform, a UAE Federal Initiative that secured over $300 million in investment attraction by connecting global aviation projects with investors.

His diverse portfolio of leadership roles, including his position as Managing Director of Vports in the Middle East, board membership of the Arab Aviation Summit, and co-founding of NewsAvia, demonstrates his deep network and influence within the aviation ecosystem. His expertise in identifying and nurturing aviation startups through his work with Vista Startup Hub at Dubai Airshow, combined with his mentor role at Intelak Hub (led by Emirates Group, Dubai Tourism, Accenture, and Microsoft), brings cutting-edge innovation capabilities to IAE. His passion for sustainable aviation solutions and carbon-free technologies aligns perfectly with IAE's Vision 2030 objectives, while his extensive experience in investment attraction and business development accelerates IAE's strategic partnerships and expansion into emerging markets across Europe, the Middle East, and beyond.

Duarte Costa is the Managing Partner of 3XP Global, where he oversees the firm's investment strategy, capital deployment, and investor relations. With more than two decades of experience in asset management, corporate finance, and investment advisory, he brings deep institutional expertise to portfolio construction, risk management, and long-term value creation.

Throughout his career, Duarte has managed over €120 million in assets, working with institutional investors, family offices, and private capital partners across multiple sectors and markets. His expertise spans investment structuring, financial strategy, due diligence, and governance, ensuring disciplined execution across the firm's investment platform.

At 3XP Global, Duarte is responsible for maintaining institutional-grade investment oversight while fostering strong relationships with limited partners (LPs), delivering transparency, strategic insight, and disciplined capital allocation. His leadership is instrumental in driving sustainable growth and creating long-term value for investors through a rigorous, opportunity-driven investment approach.

Mohamad Kabbani is an Executive Board Member at HADID International and a seasoned executive with more than 20 years of experience in international business development, strategic partnerships, and aviation services. Throughout his career, he has played a pivotal role in expanding aviation enterprises across the Middle East, building high-value commercial relationships and driving sustainable business growth.

At Aviator Fund, Mohamad leads market entry strategy and relationship development across the GCC and Levant, leveraging his extensive regional network and deep understanding of the aviation ecosystem. His expertise in stakeholder engagement, cross-border business development, and strategic alliance building provides the Fund with a strong foundation for identifying opportunities, establishing partnerships, and accelerating regional expansion.

With a proven ability to navigate complex markets and cultivate long-term institutional relationships, Mohamad is instrumental in positioning Aviator Fund as a leading aviation investment platform across the Middle East.

Issam Sultan is a professional aviation consultant with more than 25 years of experience in the industry. He is the author of Aviation Awareness 101: A Guide to the Aviation Industry and is currently working on his new book, The LEAD System: 4 Steps to Turn Work Chaos into Control. A long-time supporter and advocate of Women in Aviation Middle East, Issam has volunteered his time since the organization's inception to help advance its mission to promote diversity and inclusion in the industry. Through his consulting work, writing, and mentorship, he continues to guide aspiring aviators and professionals toward successful, organized careers in aviation and beyond.

Raja Al Mehyou brings generational business wisdom and strategic oversight to IAE as Executive Board Member, representing the continuity of the Al Mehyou family's entrepreneurial legacy that began with the founding of Mehyou Group in the 1980s. His deep understanding of the family's diversified business portfolio, which spans investments, manufacturing, contracting, real estate development, and now aviation, provides IAE with invaluable insights into sustainable business growth and international expansion. As a key member of the Mehyou Group leadership, Raja has been instrumental in the group's evolution into highly respected global partnerships and its reputation for maintaining loyalty and providing clients with both security and tangible services.

Raja's strategic perspective has been crucial in IAE's transformation from a regional aviation company to a multinational conglomerate with operations across the Middle East, Europe, and beyond. His extensive experience in managing complex international business relationships and his understanding of diverse market dynamics across multiple sectors have been vital in IAE's successful expansion into new geographic markets and its ability to forge meaningful partnerships with aviation authorities, airlines, and educational institutions worldwide. His guidance ensures that IAE's rapid growth maintains the foundational values of excellence, integrity, and customer focus that have defined the Mehyou Group's success for over four decades.