The General Aviation Awards (GAA) Board of Directors is now accepting applications and nominations for the 2026 awards, with the deadline at midnight on November 30, 2026.
The program, a cooperative effort between industry and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), seeks to recognize individuals for their professionalism and dedication to general aviation (GA). Honorees serve as exemplary models of character and excellence for the broader GA community.
Community involvement in the awards program has decreased recently, resulting in fewer nominations and applications. GAA encourages flight schools, aviation organizations, universities, FSDOs, and other entities to nominate fellow aviators or submit applications. In nearly every aviation community, there are aviators and mechanics who deserve recognition for their efforts to improve and secure general aviation.
The selection process begins following the November 30th deadline at the Flight Standards District Offices (FSDO), where Honorees are chosen at the district level. These winners then advance to the national level, where a panel of judges, comprising of industry professionals and past Honorees, selects this year’s National Honorees.
In addition to national recognition, winners present a live broadcast in which they share their knowledge and expertise, are awarded a trip to AirVenture, a commemorative plaque, and numerous gifts from industry sponsors. GAA is a nonprofit corporation run exclusively by volunteers and depends on financial support from sponsors and donations to provide these honors.
Submissions and additional information about the process are available at www.generalaviationawards.com/nominate.
