General Aviation Awards Program: Nominations for 2026 Now Open
The General Aviation Awards program is now accepting nominations for 2026, continuing its 63-year tradition of recognizing excellence in flight instruction, aviation maintenance, and flight safety.
This program, a cooperative effort between the general aviation industry and the Federal Aviation Administration, honors individuals who demonstrate exceptional professionalism and dedication to general aviation. Awards are presented in three distinguished categories:
- Certificated Flight Instructor of the Year
- Aviation Maintenance Technician of the Year
- FAA Safety Team Representative of the Year
Since its inception in 1962, the program has celebrated aviation professionals who make significant contributions to education, safety, and operational excellence in general aviation. The 2025 national winners included:
- Adam Boyd of Arkansas – Flight Instructor
- Samuel “Beau” Hardison of Arkansas – Aviation Maintenance Technician
- Josselyn Slagle of Pennsylvania – FAA Safety Team Representative
The awards underscore the crucial leadership roles these individuals play in promoting safety and professionalism throughout the aviation industry. Winners are selected through a comprehensive nomination and judging process at both district and national levels, with the national awards traditionally presented during EAA AirVenture Oshkosh.
Source: General Aviation News