Innovative Software OneReg Transforms Aviation Compliance Processes

A new software platform, OneReg, is revolutionizing the aviation industry by replacing outdated paper-based compliance systems. Developed by former Air New Zealand regulatory specialist Clinton Cardozo, OneReg aims to enhance safety management processes that are critical for airlines to ensure passenger safety. This development comes after Cardozo was made redundant from Air New Zealand during the COVID-19 pandemic, leading him to invest his redundancy payout into creating a prototype of the software.

In just a few years, OneReg has attracted significant investment, with angel investors such as K1W1 and more recently Altra Capital contributing over $4 million to the venture. Cardozo acknowledges that while this funding is modest for a tech startup, it has been sufficient to gain traction in the aviation sector.

Streamlining Aviation Compliance

OneReg is designed specifically for the aviation industry, addressing the complexities of compliance and data management among airlines, airports, and regulators. Cardozo highlighted the inefficiencies of traditional paper-based systems, stating, “It’s a global problem. A lot of information sits in a lot of different systems, so when an auditor comes in, you have to do this massive exercise of collating all that information into one place to satisfy the regulator. I thought that was just bonkers.”

The platform simplifies the management of long-form documentation, such as manuals and standard operating procedures, which often exceed hundreds of pages. With OneReg, these documents are centralized, making it easier for aviation staff to manage safety protocols efficiently.

New Zealand’s streamlined regulatory environment has provided an advantageous landscape for this innovation. With a single government structure and accessible regulatory bodies, Cardozo believes the country is uniquely positioned to tackle these compliance challenges.

OneReg officially launched within Air New Zealand’s engineering division last month, following its introduction at various airports. Engineering staff now utilize the platform to manage essential maintenance operations, ensuring regulatory compliance and aircraft safety. Cardozo considers the partnership with Air New Zealand a significant milestone for OneReg, as it validates the platform’s capability to support extensive aviation operations.

Expanding Reach and Revenue

According to Andrew Hewitt, General Manager of Engineering at Air New Zealand, digitizing previously paper-heavy processes has drastically reduced the time required to meet compliance obligations. “It’s a major step forward, giving thousands of our people the ability to manage compliance and operational documentation with far greater speed, safety, and efficiency,” Hewitt noted.

OneReg has already extended its reach to airports in Australia, contributing to approximately 40% of its revenue, and has begun operations in the United Kingdom and the United Arab Emirates. Cardozo reported that the company’s revenue has tripled year-on-year, reaching millions, reflecting the growing demand for its services.

The growth strategy focuses on airports first, which has attracted the attention of airlines increasingly aware of the product’s benefits. Cardozo also sees potential for OneReg to be adapted for the freight forwarding sector.

While the New Zealand market provides a solid foundation, Cardozo recognizes its limitations for scaling. OneReg currently employs 21 people, primarily located in international markets, with plans to add three more employees by the end of the year. However, the engineering team will remain based in New Zealand.

The company’s board includes notable figures from the aviation industry, such as former Air New Zealand Chief Operating Officer John Whittaker and former General Counsel John Blair. Additionally, Michael Powell, the former Chief Financial Officer at British low-cost carrier Wizz Air, and Laura Manson from Altra Capital, add further expertise to the team.

Looking ahead, Cardozo anticipates that the aviation compliance software market will exceed US$18 billion (NZ$31 billion) by 2033. He envisions OneReg becoming the standard tool for aviation regulation and safety management across multiple countries, aiming to secure partnerships with many large airports and airlines in the next five years.