The General Aviation Awards (GAA) honorees for 2026 have been chosen by the GAA board of directors in partnership with the FAA for contributions to the flying community in safety, flight instruction, and maintenance.
Here are this year’s recipients:
3 Professionals Honored With 2026 General Aviation Awards
GAA board and FAA recognize Mike Jesch, Mike Kloch, and Roger Whittier for their commitment to safety, instruction, and maintenance.
![The General Aviation Awards Class of 2026 has been named. [Credit: Shutterstock]](https://www.flyingmag.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/shutterstock_411061336-scaled-e1675969178864-1.jpg)
Key Takeaways:
- The 2026 General Aviation Awards, in partnership with the FAA, recognize professionals for their outstanding contributions to aviation safety, flight instruction, and maintenance.
- Mike Jesch was honored as FAASTeam Representative of the Year for his dedication to safety initiatives and the WINGS Pilot Proficiency Program.
- Mike Kloch received the CFI of the Year award for his extensive flight instruction experience, specializing in Upset Prevention and Recovery Training (UPRT).
- Roger Whittier was named Aviation Maintenance Technician of the Year for his expertise in owner-assisted inspections and developing maintenance education for aircraft owners.
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