Judging Panel
An independent panel of recognised and expert judges, drawn from academia, business and broader related sectors will determine the winners of the Aviation Industry Awards UK.
We understand the importance of a fair and objective judging process. That's why we assemble a prestigious panel of industry leaders, renowned for their extensive knowledge, enthusiasm, and expertise in the aviation industry.
Our selection process is meticulous. Judges are bound by strict confidentiality agreements and declare any potential conflicts of interest. Entries with conflicts are reassigned, ensuring complete impartiality.
This unwavering commitment to integrity is the foundation of our awards programme. Become a part of recognising industry excellence. If you're interested in joining the judging panel, email your details to judges@businessriver.com
2026 Judging Panel
Richard Curran (Judging Coordinator)
Head of Aviation Management, City St. Georges, University of London
Ricky provides Executive Masters and Executive Doctoral degrees in Aviation Management at City St. Georges and is a Fellow of the Royal Aeronautical Society (RAeS) and the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) VIEW MORE
George Arbuckle
Senior Lecturer and Course Leader in Air Transport Management, University of West London
George is a Senior Lecturer and Course Leader in Air Transport Management at the University of West London and was previously Overseas Airports Manager and Inflight Product Manager for Monarch Airlines. VIEW MORE
Richard Dempers
Director - Solutions & Technology, Rheinberry Group Limited
Richard is an aviation technology expert. He's played a leading role in international airport security innovation as a key contributor to Open Architecture guidelines and definitions, alongside taking part in enhancements to DICOS and ACRIS. He's worked supported numerous airports and organisations. VIEW MORE
Iain Dupère
Subject Group Lead for Mechanical and Aeronautical Engineering, De Montfort University
Iain Dupère is a seasoned Academic having held leadership roles in Engineering at the University of Cambridge, the University of Manchester and De Montfort University. He is a specialist in Acoustics, especially Aircraft noise. VIEW MORE
Viktoriia Ivannikova
Assistant Professor in Aviation Management, Dublin City University
Dr Viktoriia Ivannikova is an Assistant Professor in Aviation Management at DCU Business School with an extensive teaching and research experience in aviation management. She is also an External Examiner for MSc in Airport Planning and Management at Cranfield University in UK. VIEW MORE
Naveed Kapadia
Senior Lecturer / Head of Aviation Operations and Management Programme, Buckinghamshire New University
Naveed, a Senior Aviation Lecturer at Buckinghamshire New University, is an award-winning educator with 15+ years in global flight training and European airline operations, offering vast commercial and executive expertise. VIEW MORE
Andy McFarlane
CEO, Leading Edge Aviation
Andy McFarlane, CEO of Leading Edge Aviation, brings over 30 years of industry expertise to drive innovation and operational excellence. His visionary leadership has positioned the company at the forefront of aviation solutions. VIEW MORE
Stephanie Preston
Sunderland University, Sunderland University
Senior Lecturer and Programme Leader for the BSc Tourism and Aviation Management course at University of Sunderland VIEW MORE
Gary Roberts
Managing Director, Midland Aerospace
Gary Roberts is the Managing Director of Midland Aerospace, a leading UK-based supplier of precision-machined and fabricated components for the aerospace and defence industries. Gary brings over two decades of leadership and operational experience in engineering and manufacturing. VIEW MORE
Fergal Whelan-Porter
CEO, Aeolus Engine Services
Mr. Whelan-Porter is a seasoned aviation entrepreneur with over 30 years experience in the aviation aftermarket sector, in particular engine maintenance and leasing. VIEW MORE
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