Meet the CEO: Andre Brandao
Andre Brandao, our CEO and the founder of AirNav Systems
Andre Brandao is our CEO and the founder of Airnav Systems. He is also a pilot who flies professionally. While studying computer science at university in 1996, he developed a flight tracking application called AirNav Suite. A few years later, in 2001 his love for aviation and a desire to innovate in the flight tracking space, led to the establishment of AirNav Systems.
In this interview, Andre shares what it’s like juggling 2 jobs, the job of a Boeing 767-777 pilot as well as his job as CEO of Airnav Systems.
What’s it like being a pilot who flies professionally and CEO of a fast-growing company at the same time?
"Being a professional pilot complements my work at AirNav. It’s a perfect match. I try to apply my knowledge & experience from aviation to the many flight tracking solutions that we’re building at AirNav Systems. In fact, some of RadarBox.com features we currently have were inspired by the Boeing 767 & 777 Flight Management System. At times though, managing the company, in addition, to actively flying can be challenging. Nevertheless, each role is extremely rewarding and teaches me something new every day."
Is AirNav Systems primarily a B2C or a B2B company?
"AirNav is both a B2B and B2C company. We develop all our products in-house. Right from the ADS-B receivers used by feeders in over 190 countries to our flight data API’s, which are used extensively by our B2C customers. We serve both markets and have powerful & robust tracking solutions for each of them. Some of our solutions for the retail market include our Radarbox flight tracking platform (Website & App), ADS-B hardware for feeders and enthusiasts. With regards to the B2B market, we have customized flight data solutions, fleet, and airport tracking applications, and a whole range of bespoke white label solutions. We pride ourselves in being flexible and offering affordable solutions to our customers."
What’s a typical day at AirNav Systems like?
"I meet with our Engineering team to check on progress and discuss new ideas. When I’m not in client or company meetings, I’m usually answering emails from the media, and from team members abroad. Here’s a fun fact. In a meeting last week, we had participants from 5 continents."
What motivates you? And do you have a favorite quote you’d like to share?
"To me, nothing is as motivating as seeing our clients happy with our service and growing their own businesses with our data. Also seeing AirNav Systems growing so rapidly really gets me excited. It's incredible to see the hard work of our team being recognized as disruptive and innovative in the aviation industry.
One of my favorite quotes is "Luck favors those who work hard.", says Andre.
