Innovation and technology excellence celebrated at Aviation Industry Awards

Inflight Dublin has emerged as the standout winner at the 2024 Aviation Industry Awards, securing three major accolades including the coveted Aviation Company of the Year award.

The world’s largest independent Content Service Provider (CSP) also claimed awards in the best use of technology and aviation innovation categories at the ceremony held at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Santry.

The triple-win recognises Inflight Dublin’s continued excellence in providing innovative in-flight entertainment and passenger engagement solutions to over 50 airlines worldwide. Since its founding in 1984, the company has established itself as a premier provider of diverse content including blockbuster movies, TV shows, interactive games, and destination guides.

John White, chief executive of Inflight Dublin, commented: “These awards are a testament to our team’s relentless drive to push boundaries, innovate, and deliver exceptional results. They validate the commitment we have to our clients, partners, and the entire aviation community. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who has been part of this journey – our talented team, supportive customers, and industry peers. This achievement is a shared success, and it inspires us to aim even higher.”

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The sixth annual awards ceremony, hosted by Jarlath Regan, celebrated excellence across the aviation sector, with 57 entries from 44 companies competing across 19 categories.

Other notable winners included Limerick-based aviation software specialist cloudcards, which secured the aviation R&D award for its innovative cloud asset management system.

Alina Salikhova, marketing manager at Cloudcards, said: “The cloudcards in-house development team has created a unique product bringing together AI, secure cloud storage and a user-friendly UI to produce the market leading Document Management Advance product. We are honoured to be awarded the aviation R&D award 2024.”

Jane Magill, managing director of AAV Aviation Services Training in Shannon, received the award for outstanding contribution to the aviation industry. Ms Magill, who serves as co-founder and chair of Irish Aviation Foundation’s Shannon Aviation Museum and president of Women in Aviation International Ireland Chapter, described the recognition as “like receiving an Oscar”, adding that she was “truly overwhelmed”.

The aviation rising star award went to Christen Grant, marketing and business development manager at EirTrade Aviation in Knock. Her organisation also secured the Workplace Achievement award, recognising its commitment to creating an exceptional work environment and staff initiatives.

Fjalar Scott, VP of sales in AvAir, an awards finalist, said it was an honour to be included in the prestigious group of other rising stars. “It was a great night supporting fellow members of the industry and learning about all the remarkable achievements,” he added.

Eimer Hannon, managing director in Hannon Travel Services, also an awards finalist, stated: “Hannon Travel has been a trusted partner of Ireland’s aviation industry for over 20 years. Our 24/7 support keeps their teams moving seamlessly, empowering them to establish flawless global partnerships. We look forward to our continued collaboration.”

Judging coordinator Dr Viktoriia Ivannikova, assistant professor in Aviation Management at Dublin City University, noted that the awards entries highlighted the industry’s growing commitment to sustainability, with the aviation sustainability & environment and CSR achievement awards attracting numerous submissions focused on reducing emissions and enhancing sustainable practices.

“In categories like best use of technology and safety, there’s a noticeable trend towards digital transformation, with entrants leveraging AI, IoT, and automation to improve efficiency and safety standards,” she added. “A significant number of submissions were in the women in aviation award category, which demonstrates the industry’s positive shift towards gender inclusivity. The strong interest in the people development and aviation rising star awards further showcases the sector’s dedication to nurturing talent and supporting a skilled, diverse workforce.

“Across categories, the submissions reflect an industry that is not only innovative but also increasingly focused on social responsibility, operational excellence, and customer-centric approaches,” Ms Ivannikova stated.

The event, supported by The 1878 and with The Irish Times as Communications Partner, attracted 201 attendees from across the aviation sector.

Aviation Industry Awards 2024 judges

Dr Viktoriia Ivannikova (judging coordinator) – assistant professor in aviation management, Dublin City University
Adam Bouchard – vice-president of operations, Nashville International Airport
Enda Cornelle – principal, ECGenConsulting
Aidan Flanagan – director of airport capacity & operations, ACI Europe
Dr Edgar Jimenez – senior lecturer in air transport management, Cranfield University
Dr Kyriakos Kourousis – associate professor, University of Limerick
Frank O’Connor – director, Airtel ATN
Gaël Poget – director for public affairs, Genève Aéroport
Wayne Tyrrell – senior legal adviser, Irish Aviation Authority
David Usher – head of network, airspace and stakeholder engagement, AirNav Ireland