Robert Boyle

Robert started his career in strategy consulting before joining British Airways in 1993. He held senior executive positions including Director of Fleet and Network Planning, Commercial Director and Director of Strategy. He was one of the architects of the creation of IAG in 2011 following the merger with Iberia and was their Director of Strategy until leaving in 2019. During that time, he oversaw the group's commercial, innovation and strategic activities, negotiated the acquisitions of bmi, Vueling and Aer Lingus and launched the group's low-cost long-haul airline brand LEVEL.

Robert holds an honours degree in Mathematics from Cambridge University and an MBA from INSEAD. Since leaving IAG, he has continued to work as an independent aviation consultant and industry commentator, publishing regular in-depth articles on his blog at gridpoint.consulting.

Robert brings to SkiesFifty decades of experience in airline strategy, a deep understanding of airline economics and extensive experience of airline deals and mergers.  

Robert leads on research and co-leads on investment and asset class strategy.

Why is sustainability in aviation so important to you?

Aviation is all about connecting people and its growth has democratised travel. The economic and social benefits it brings are no longer the preserve of the privileged few. But if that is to continue, aviation needs to decarboniseand time is short. I am passionate about doing what I can to help find smart solutions to this challenge.

What excites you about the SkiesFifty mission?

Rising to the net-zero challenge for aviation will require collaboration at a global level. Innovation, smart financial incentives and structures and well targeted investment on an unprecedented scale will all be needed. I am excited about the opportunity for SkiesFifty to play a role in all those areas.

How do you balance life with work?

I have always loved to travel, so a career in aviation has been a great fit. I'm someone who writes code for fun and relaxation and that has served me well in my work life as technology has become all pervasive. But for me, spending time with my family is what it is all about, especially if good food and nice wine are involved.

What is on your Spotify playlist right now?

I grew up playing classical violin and heavy metal guitar, so my musical tastes could be described as "diverse"! Foo Fighters, Linkin Park, Greta van Fleet, Blue Öyster Cult, Audioslave, Evanescence, Bach and Vivaldi all feature on my most frequently played list.