Marc Bailey, CEO of the British Business General Aviation Association (BBGA), has been awarded the prestigious Michael Wheatley Award for Outstanding Services to Aviation. The recognition coincides with BBGA’s annual conference and AGM, where chair Aoife O’Sullivan highlighted Bailey’s leadership and contributions to the association’s nearly 200 members.

Bailey has steered BBGA for 15 years following a four-decade career in aerospace, including roles with British Airways and Cobham. His achievements include strengthening BBGA’s industry influence, forming key partnerships, and advocating for general aviation. He played a crucial role in securing closer ties between BBGA and the European Business Aviation Association, and helped establish General Aviation for Business (GA4Biz) to unite industry organisations.

Bailey’s leadership has earned respect from the UK Department for Transport and the Civil Aviation Authority. He has also championed aviation skills and training, helping launch the Aviation Skills Retention platform.

Lindsey Oliver, managing director of BBGA, praised his leadership, stating: “Marc has worked with five different Prime Ministers and their civil servant teams, always operating with enthusiasm and a thorough attention to detail. Marc is a high-quality CEO and thoughtful mentor.”