The Air League hosted its Annual Awards Reception on Wednesday, 9th July, at the iconic Terrace Pavilion, Palace of Westminster, bringing together senior leaders from across aviation, aerospace, government, and education to celebrate the individuals and organisations transforming the future of the sector.
Proudly sponsored by Bristow Group, the evening recognised outstanding contributions to making aviation and aerospace more accessible to young people from all backgrounds.
Keynote speaker Mike Kane MP, Minister for Aviation, Maritime and Security, paid tribute to The Air League’s life-changing work, stating:
“The programmes delivered by The Air League don’t just inspire young people from all backgrounds — they transform lives by building confidence and raising aspirations. They level the playing field and ensure that careers in aviation and aerospace are accessible to all.”
Janine Hornsby, Chief Executive of The Air League, emphasised the need for systemic change in access to industry careers:
“There’s no shortage of young people who want to join our industry. What there is, is a shortage of opportunity. There is a huge disconnect between inspiration and employment. We need deeper collaboration — between industry, government, education, and organisations like The Air League — to create these accessible pathways into employment. Not just focusing on inspiration, but also progression and retention.”
Honouring Unsung Heroes and Pioneers
The evening also served to celebrate the outstanding achievements of individuals making a lasting difference behind the scenes. The Air League presented its 2025 honours to the following recipients:
The Gold Medal
Sir Stelios Haji-Ioannou
For revolutionising low-cost air travel through the founding of easyJet and for his continued philanthropic support of aviation access and education.
Tony Anderson accepted the award on behalf of Sir Stelios Haji-Ioannou.
The Founders’ Medal
Alex Whittingham
For transforming global pilot training at Bristol Groundschool through innovation in modular learning and regulatory reform, impacting over 22,000 aspiring pilots worldwide.
The President’s Meritorious Service Award
Jonathon Counsell
For his leadership in aviation sustainability across industry and government, and for championing youth engagement in climate-focused innovation.
The Scott-Farnie Medal
Georgie Scott-Wilds
For her transformative work in apprenticeships at Marshall, mentoring future engineers and shaping national standards through her work on the Trailblazer group.
The Jeffrey Quill Medal
Brenda Jefcoate
For leading the CAA’s STEM programme, inspiring over 300,000 young people through pioneering education and outreach initiatives.
Marshall of Cambridge Award
Mubashar Yasin
For his resilience and dedication as a scholarship recipient and outreach ambassador.
- Sophie Gairdner – For her outstanding volunteer efforts and advocacy for aviation among young people.
- Rodney Galiffe – For over 30 years of flight instruction and mentorship at South Warwickshire Flying School.
- Eleanor Doak – For inspiring a generation of air-minded Scouts through tireless volunteering and leadership.
- Katherine Moloney – For founding Elevate(her) and creating a global platform for women in aviation, now spanning 63 countries.
- Alan Harrison, Bob Dowty, and Graham Pursey – For their decade-long mentorship and delivery of the Gliding to Solo Programme at London Gliding Club.
The Billy Deacon Memorial Award, sponsored by Onboard Systems, was presented to Winch Paramedic Chris Purkiss from the Lydd Search and Rescue Helicopter Base. Chris was recognised for his exceptional courage and professionalism during the rescue of a lone yachtsman wrecked on the Newhaven Harbour breakwater during gale-force conditions in July of last year. His bravery and skill exemplify the highest standards of service in helicopter search and rescue operations.
The Air League extends its heartfelt thanks to all who attended and continue to support our mission to break down barriers and build a more diverse and inclusive future for aviation, aerospace, and space.
To find out how you can support The Air League’s work, visit: www.airleague.co.uk/support-us/support-us
