19 February 2014
In one of the most significant changes in its 85-year history, the former Guild of Air Pilots and Air Navigators (GAPAN) has unveiled a new name, reflecting a notable honour presented by the monarchy.
The independent organisation will now be known as The Honourable Company of Air Pilots.
Judge Tudor Owen FRAeS, Master of the Air Pilots (pictured) 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 organisation says there will be no change in either the organisation or its ethos. Based in London, the Honourable Company of Air Pilots states it is dedicated to ensuring that aircraft are flown by pilots who are highly competent, well-trained, dependable and respected. Find more information at
<a href=’http://www.airpilots.org’ target=’_blank’>www.airpilots.org</a>
