Sonal Saxena

Sonal Saxena

An Indian Navy Veteran Officer, I hold 21+ years of experience with specializations in both Marine (Diesel) and Aeronautical Engineering (Turbo Prop/ Jet). KEY SKILLS • Innovation, process planning and optimization • Transformational leadership and strategy formulation • Complex Program management and integration • Cross-functional team management • Operations, Operational risk management and root cause analysis • Academic institutional coordination and Post Graduate level program design • Well versed with Defence Procurement Procedures, Governmental business, IMTAR CORE EXPERIENCE- AVIATION • Aviation technical safety audit and incident/ accident root-cause analysis pan-Navy and Coast Guard • Program management for naval reconnaissance aircraft and fleet maintenance for two aircraft fleets (Turbo Prop Russian Stream & Boeing) • Technical Lead for 02 Aircraft Acceptance Programs from foreign locations • Leading teams in aircraft maintenance and aircraft component MROs • Leading teams in Aero-engines mothballing, storage and revival MRO • Chief Engineer for front-line aircraft maintenance squadron and Lead Manager Planning for MRO • Program/ project manager for various modifications/ upgrade programs on aircraft engineering systems (including environment control, landing gear, air-frame structures, composites and engine controls), weapon integration systems, mission suite electronics (including navigational and communication systems' upgrade) and various Buyer Furnished Equipment (BFE) along with execution of relevant certifications/ compliance and operational induction. • Instructor for post graduate subjects and naval aviation technical management • Training Coordinator at Category ‘A’ Indian Naval aviation technical training institute • Chapter Secretary & Member (National Council, AeSI) for promoting aeronautics, as a volunteer CORE EXPERIENCE- MARINE • Chief Engineer for 03 warships and project manager for major refit of 02 warships in civil-military partnership • Program/ project manager for various modifications/ upgrade programs on marine mechanical and control systems including engine health monitoring systems, main propulsion controls, gear-box/ couplings systems, shafting seals and plummer block, propulsion auxiliaries, ship's air conditioning, HP air delivery systems, fire fighting system and specialized heavy engineering equipment for research operations
  • Joined: 16/08/2023
  • Articles: 1

Supply Chain Considerations to Support Urban Air Mobility eVTOLS

The article discusses the growth of the Urban Air Mobility (UAM) market, focusing on Electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing (eVTOL) systems, which are expected to play a significant role. It mentions the collaboration between Eve (a subsidiary of EmbraerX) and DHL to create a comprehensive supply chain framework for eVTOLs. The key factors and challenges in this supply chain strategy are outlined, including modes of transportation, frequency and delivery plans, logistics partners, inventory locations, infrastructure needs, and disruption contingency plans.

The article also addresses the importance of spare parts logistics in the eVTOL industry and highlights some existing collaborations and partnerships in this sector. It emphasizes the complexity of the supply chain strategy for eVTOLs, especially in the Asia-Pacific region, and the need for effective risk assessment and mitigation.

Battery logistics, particularly for lithium-ion batteries, are discussed, with a focus on transportation, storage, and disposal requirements.

In conclusion, the article suggests leveraging technology, including blockchain and AI, to improve inventory management, order processing, traceability, and accountability in the eVTOL supply chain. It emphasizes the importance of data-driven decision-making and predictive models for a resilient supply chain.

Overall, the article provides insights into the challenges and considerations in developing a robust supply chain strategy to support the growth of eVTOLs in the UAM market