Speaker Bio

Danny Bharj is a prominent figure in the aviation technology sector, recognized for his pivotal role in modernizing air traffic management (ATM) systems. Currently serving as the Director of Aviation Technology Programmes at Viasat, Danny leads the development and delivery of the Iris programme, a pioneering initiative that aims to enhance ATM services through satellite-based data link.

His leadership has been crucial in advancing the Iris programme towards its full operational capability, ensuring compliance with European and international standards and significantly improving safety in the aviation industry, and supporting Pan-European EASA certification for the service through partner ESSP. Danny’s contributions to the Iris programme, his role in the standardization of ATN/IPS, and his leadership in developing and implementing critical aviation technologies have positioned him as a respected and influential leader in the industry.

Danny has over three decades of experience spanning roles with UK Ministry of Defence, at SITA, where he was responsible for the product lifecycle of the ATN Datalink Service, and at EUROCONTROL, where he led the PETAL II programme office.

Danny holds a BSc in Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering, and an MBA from Cranfield University. Danny has represented Viasat and SITA at various industry forums, including ICAO, IATA, and EUROCAE, contributing to the standardization and advancement of data link technologies.