In one of the most significant changes in its 85-year history, the former Guild of Air Pilots and Air Navigators has unveiled a new name, reflecting the notable honour bestowed upon it by Her Majesty the Queen. The leading independent organisation promoting the highest levels of safety, training and best practices for pilots around the world will in future be known as ‘The Honourable Company of Air Pilots’.
Judge Tudor Owen, the Master of the Honourable Company of Air Pilots, unveils the new name and crest of the world’s leading independent pilots’ organisation on the nose of a Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II © The Honourable Company of Air Pilots
His Honour Judge Tudor Owen FRAeS, Master of the Air Pilots says:
“As an active 21st century organisation we are very privileged to receive this rarely bestowed historic title.”
The ‘Honourable Company’ status is a rare distinction, which is in the gift of the monarch and has only previously been granted to three companies; “The Honourable Company of Master Mariners” (by King George V, when their Master was Edward Prince of Wales), “The Honourable Artillery Company” (in 1656) and “The Honourable East India Company” (now defunct).
The new title marks a major distinction, but there will be no change in either the organisation or its ethos. Based in London, but with an internationally-based membership, the Honourable Company of Air Pilots is dedicated to ensuring that aircraft are flown by pilots who are highly competent, well-trained, dependable and respected.
The Air Pilots support the education and training of pilots from the initial instruction of young pilots to specialist training at the highest levels. Through its charitable activities, education and training, technical committees, aircrew selection, scholarships and sponsorships, advice and recognition of the achievements of fellow aviators worldwide, the Honourable Company keeps itself at the forefront of the aviation world.
The Air Pilots also provides expert input to regulators, government and media on areas including aviation and the environment, airport capacity in south east England, aircrew flight time limitations and the maintenance of piloting skills in increasingly automated aircraft. Air Pilots experts are available to all media on request, to ensure accurate and fully informed reporting of any aviation events.
