The Fédération Aéronautique Internationale (FAI) has bestowed one of their most prestigious awards, the FAI Group Diploma of Honour, on the Australian Aviation Hall of Fame.
Announced late last week, the diploma recognises AAHOF's work in preserving aviation heritage in Australia and inspiring future generations of Australian aviators.
The FAI established the Diplomas in 1965 to recognise groups of people that have contributed significantly to the progress of aeronautics and astronautics. More than one diploma can be awarded each year.
In part, the FAI citation reads,
Since its initial launch in 2010, AAHOF has inducted 61 Australians in recognition of their outstanding contributions to the development of aviation/aerospace in Australia. AAHOF has also recognised 12 organisations for their outstanding contributions to aviation and aerospace through the Southern Cross Award.
In 2025, a further 4 Australians will be inducted into the Australian Aviation Hall of Fame, along with an aviation organisation recognised for its contribution through the Southern Cross Award. AAHOF has only existed for 15 years whereas our proud aviation heritage stretches back more than a century.
Previous Australian winners of an FAI Group Diploma of Honour include HARS, the ATSB, the Sports Aviation Federation of Australia, Australian Aerobatic Club, the Australian Ballooning Federation and the Australian Parachute Federation.
AAHOF is based in its own space above the Historical Aircraft Restoration Society (HARS) hangar at Shellharbour Airport.
In July, AAHOF announced four new inductees to the hall of fame, to be honoured at a gala dinner at Shellharbour Airport on 14 March 2026.
More information on AAHOF and details of the gala induction dinner are on the AAHOF website.