In this episode of Hangar X Studios, host John Ramstead sits down with aviation business and financial analyst Brian Foley live from Verticon. They dive into the evolving landscape of the EVTOL (electric vertical takeoff and landing) sector, discuss investor sentiment, infrastructure challenges, policy impacts, and the future of aerospace innovation. With decades of experience across Boeing, Falcon Jet, and his own consultancy, Brian delivers a candid, fact-driven analysis of what’s working in the aerospace space—and what isn’t. Whether you’re an innovator, investor, or aviation enthusiast, this episode offers invaluable insights into the dynamic and high-stakes world of next-generation flight.

Episode Highlights:

• The “culling of the herd” in the EVTOL sector: why fewer competitors may be a good thing

• How investor sentiment has shifted post-SPAC craze

• Regulatory and certification hurdles unique to aviation startups

• The rise of extended VTOLs (XVTOLs) as a game-changing middle ground

• Political and economic policies impacting private aviation and investment

• Why infrastructure—not just innovation—will determine EVTOL adoption

Key Points with Timestamps:

• [00:00:03] Brian Foley on the “culling of the herd” in EVTOLs and why it may benefit remaining players

• [00:02:34] The shift in investor sentiment toward EVTOLs: from SPAC hype to hard realities

• [00:03:36] Certification as a major hurdle: why MVPs don’t fly in aviation

• [00:04:31] Funding pathways for aviation startups: friends & family to VC

• [00:05:05] What investors are looking for now: beyond napkin sketches

• [00:05:36] Outlook for EVTOLs: niche use cases, starting with cargo and military

• [00:07:09] Infrastructure challenges: vertiports, airspace, and urban logistics

• [00:08:38] The promise of XVTOLs: bridging the gap between helicopters and commercial aviation

• [00:10:13] Beta Technologies and the baby-step strategy toward EVTOL success

• [00:10:47] Policy impacts: Paris Agreement, bonus depreciation, and IRS audits

• [00:12:50] The helicopter and business jet markets: steady recovery and future outlook

• [00:13:52] Closing thoughts on aerospace momentum and investment climate

Guest Bio:

Brian Foley is a seasoned aviation and financial analyst with a career spanning multiple sectors of the aerospace industry. He has worked with major players like Falcon Jet and Boeing, and now runs his own consultancy firm, Brian Foley Associates. A regular contributor to Forbes, Foley is known for his clear, fact-based perspectives on the aerospace market, including his deep dives into aviation investment trends, EVTOL startups, and business aviation economics. His insights are sought after by investors, executives, and innovators looking to navigate the complex aviation landscape.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/brifo/ 

About BriFO:

BriFO, short for Brian Foley Associates, is a boutique aerospace consultancy founded by industry veteran Brian Foley. With decades of experience at leading aviation companies like Boeing and Dassault Falcon Jet, BriFO provides strategic insights and market intelligence to investors, startups, and established aerospace firms. Known for its rigorous analysis and straight-talking assessments, BriFO specializes in emerging aviation technologies such as EVTOL, business aviation trends, and aerospace investment strategies. The firm combines deep technical knowledge with financial acumen to help clients navigate the complex and evolving aerospace landscape with clarity and confidence.

Notable Quotes:

“You can’t sell a beta product in aviation. It actually has to be the alpha—FAA certified.”
— Brian Foley

“The EVTOL industry will be very nichy. Those that find their niche and exceed at it will succeed.”
— Brian Foley

“Aviation eats its young. New ideas get dismissed quickly—but EVTOLs will find their place.”
— Brian Foley

“With fewer players now, the survivors in the EVTOL space may actually have a better shot.”
— Brian Foley