RTCA’s award program recognizes individuals whose contributions meaningfully advance aviation standards and safety. The program has been refreshed to ensure recognition is impact-driven, selective, and aligned with clear criteria, preserving the prestige of each award.

Awards are not guaranteed each year and are presented only when nominees meet established standards of excellence.

RTCA recognizes contributions across the following categories:

• Excellence Award – Honors a standing committee member for outstanding contributions to standards developement within the past year.
• Chair (Leadership) Award – Recognizes a Special Committee Chair for effective leadership, accountability, and adherence to RTCA Special Committee Guidance.
• New Voice Awards – Highlights a newer contributor whose organization has been involved with RTCA for 24 months or less and who has demonstrated exceptional early impact.
• Legacy Award – Honors a long-standing committee member whose sustained contributions have had lasting impact on aviation standards and safety.

Note: The New Voice and Legacy Awards are not presented annually and will only be awarded when a nominee clearly meets the criteria.

Nominations are submitted through an annual call using a standardized nomination form. Self-nominations are not permitted. Each nomination must include clear examples of impact and contribution. Potential nominees are not limited to those who had a document published by their Special Committee.

Eligible nominations are reviewed through a structured evaluation process focused on impact, leadership, and alignment with RTCA’s mission. If no nominee meets the criteria, no award will be presented.

Award recipients are publicly acknowledged through RTCA communications, including email announcements, social media, and the RTCA website, and are formally recognized in person during the PMC meeting.

For more information:

Please contact us at [email protected].

Click here for information on our 2025 Awards Program.