Speaker Bio

Zheng Tao is an aerospace executive and systems engineer with over 18 years of experience advancing airspace integration across commercial space, higher airspace operations (HAO), and traditional air traffic management (ATM). He is the Co-Founder and President of AirSpace Innovation (ASI), a specialized engineering firm that helps government and commercial clients integrate new entrants into complex airspaces through applied research, systems engineering, modeling and simulation, prototyping, and strategic planning.

Mr. Tao and his team at ASI have led multiple FAA-sponsored initiatives focused on the safe and scalable integration of HAO and space launch and reentry operations into the National Airspace System (NAS). Their work supports both the FAA Air Traffic Organization and Office of NextGen, and includes the development of operational concepts, execution of demonstrations for future ATM capabilities, and engineering studies to identify and mitigate operational and CNS infrastructure shortfalls. ASI works closely with NASA, DoD, and a broad network of industry stakeholders to align technical, operational, and policy elements.

Mr. Tao chairs ASTM’s Commercial Spaceflight Standards Roadmapping Subcommittee (F47.92) and led the development of the world’s first industry-wide ATM data exchange guide for space operations. His leadership has shaped national strategies for launch and reentry integration, and he has contributed to FAA efforts through concept development, fast-time simulation, and system-level analysis.
Prior to founding AirSpace Innovation, Mr. Tao held lead roles at MITRE, Saab, and Auterion, delivering impactful solutions in global ATM modernization, UAS swarm control, and airport efficiency. His domain expertise spans tower, en route, and terminal operations, with a focus on the safe integration of emerging entrants. He has authored over ten technical papers on space integration and ATM operations research and has served as a trusted advisor to multiple FAA programs.

Mr. Tao holds master’s degrees in Electrical and Computer Engineering from Johns Hopkins University and in Space Systems Engineering from the University of Michigan. He is an active member of AIAA and CANSO, including CANSO’s Space Task Force, and continues to support global efforts to enable interoperable, efficient access to higher airspace.