The Aviation Industry Awards UK has announced its 2026 shortlist, naming the majority of the finalists who will compete across 20 total categories at the awards ceremony on September 22nd, 2026 at the Park Plaza, London Riverbank, with just over two months remaining until the winners are revealed in front of hundreds of senior aviation executives.

The shortlist spans the full breadth of the UK aviation sector, recognising organisations and individuals from airlines, airports, manufacturers, training providers, ground handlers, and specialist service companies that have demonstrated outstanding innovation, leadership, and operational excellence over the past 12 months.

Entries were assessed by an independent judging panel drawn from academia, industry, and broader aviation-related sectors. 

The 2026 panel includes experts from Cranfield University, the University of Glasgow, De Montfort University, Dublin City University, and Buckinghamshire New University, alongside senior figures from Sustainable Aviation, Leading Edge Aviation, Midland Aerospace, and Aeolus Engine Services. 

Richard Curran, Head of Aviation Management at City St. Georges, University of London, coordinates the panel, with all judges bound by strict confidentiality agreements and conflict of interest declarations to ensure a fair and impartial process.

This year's finalist categories range from aviation innovation, safety, and sustainability to people development, apprenticeships, technology, diversity, ground handling, and emerging aerospace technology. These include the Aviation Innovation Award, Safety Award, Aviation Sustainability & Environment Award, Women in Aviation Award, Apprenticeship Programme Award, Best Use of Technology Award, Diversity in Aviation Award, Ground Handling Provider of the Year, and Best Emerging Aviation Technology Award, among others spanning airport achievement, air cargo, FBO operations, and aviation R&D.

The 2026 awards are supported by Gold Sponsor STS Engine Services, a London Stansted-based engine maintenance, repair, and storage specialist serving airlines, lessors, and OEMs worldwide across engine types including LEAP, CFM56, V2500, TRENT, and RB211. 

Amárach Research, Ireland's leading market research consultancy, joins the programme as Supporter, bringing its expertise in consumer and business trend analysis to the awards community. 

Meanwhile, The Sunday Times serves as the official Communications Partner, with awards night coverage published across its digital platform.

Visit the Aviation Industry Awards UK official website to view the full shortlist, explore category details, and find out more about sponsorship opportunities for the September ceremony.