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ZeroAvia founder and CEO Val Miftakhov steps down after layoffs and program cutbacks
Founder and CEO Val Miftakhov stepped down as executive effective May 26, 2026, to pursue new opportunities, and will remain on the board. Executive Chair Christine Ourmieres-Widener, who was overseeing day-to-day operations, continues to lead while the board searches for a permanent CEO.
- Miftakhov remains on board after stepping down as CEO.
- Christine Ourmieres-Widener continues as Executive Chair leading day-to-day operations.
- Board searching for permanent CEO replacement.
- Miftakhov stated: "Building ZeroAvia from an idea into a company at the forefront of sustainable aviation has been the privilege of a lifetime."