Speaker Bio

James Evans leads Airways International, the commercial arm of Airways New Zealand, overseeing global commercial operations spanning air traffic control training, simulation and selection, uncrewed traffic management, aeronautical information management and procedure design.
James is a globally respected leader with a track record of translating complex aviation capability into real-world impact for ANSPs and aviation authorities. With experience spanning New Zealand and the Middle East, he brings a sharp commercial instinct alongside deep air traffic management sector knowledge – driving Airways International’s growth as a trusted partner to organisations navigating some of the most significant workforce and operational challenges in aviation today.
James works closely with global aviation leaders, regulators and industry partners, and is a valued contributor to international forums focused on the future of ATM capability and workforce sustainability.
Under James’ leadership, Airways International continues to develop and scale an integrated suite of solutions that addresses the full lifecycle of ATC workforce development – from identifying the right candidates through validated selection tools, to competency-based training delivered by world-class instructors, to preparing controllers in highly realistic simulation environments.
In his prior role with Airways New Zealand, James headed up New Zealand’s domestic and Oceanic surveillance services, helping to position Airways as a benchmark for safe, efficient and sustainable air traffic management.