The National Air Transportation Association (NATA) has recognised individuals across general aviation whose professionalism and leadership continue to strengthen safety, service and collaboration in the industry. The 2025 Industry Excellence and Leadership Awards will be presented during the NATA Aviation Business Conference on November 18, 2025, in Dallas, Texas.

Long Beach Airport (LGB) director Cynthia Guidry received NATA’s 2025 Airport Executive Partnership Award for her leadership in building strong relationships among airport operators, businesses and the local community. “We’re proud to be part of this community, alongside residents, pilots and businesses,” says Guidry. “This award recognises our team’s dedication to listening, collaborating and building understanding across all who are connected to the airport.” Under her direction, LGB launched community outreach initiatives and programmes such as the Subsidized Aviation Fuel for the Environment (SAFE) programme, promoting the transition to unleaded avgas.

NATA president and CEO Curt Castagna says Guidry’s example demonstrates how “strong airport-business-community partnerships create better outcomes for everyone.”

Other recipients include Aviation Performance Solutions CEO Paul “B.J.” Ransbury for Excellence in Pilot Training, Heritage Aviation’s Duane Fowler for the General Aviation Service Technician Award, Jet Aviation’s Hector Milian for the Safety 1st Certified Line Service Professional Award and APP Jet Center’s Erin Schubert for the FBO Customer Service Representative Award.

Signature Aviation’s Adam Cope and Connor Thoreck were also recognised with the Leadership Excellence and Future Leader Awards for their calm professionalism during the January 29 Potomac River air disaster. “Because of our preparation, we were able to help reopen the airport faster than I thought possible,” says Cope. Thoreck adds, “That night showed me the importance of teamwork, preparation and supporting one another in the hardest of times.”

“These professionals embody the resilience and dedication that make general aviation essential,” says Castagna. “Their leadership and example ensure our industry continues to thrive.”