The Tony Jannus Distinguished Aviation Society is proud to honor internationally renowned aviation icon Steven Udvar-Hazy as this year’s Tony Jannus Award recipient, presented annually to someone who has made major and lasting contributions to the commercial aviation industry.

“Steven Udvar-Hazy may not be a household name outside of the aviation industry, but if you’ve ever been grateful for the ability to fly somewhere important to you at a reasonable price, he might deserve more of the credit for that than any other single person,” said David Long, 2026 Tony Jannus Society Co-Chair.

“His visionary idea of making aircraft acquisition easier and more affordable for airlines enabled massive growth and competition in the industry that has benefited passengers for more than 50 years,” added fellow 2026 Co-Chair Beau Zimmer. “We are pleased to honor him with one of the industry’s highest accolades.”

Udvar-Hazy co-founded the aircraft leasing business that became International Lease Finance Corporation (ILFC), which he led as Chairman and Chief Executive Officer until 2010. Under his leadership, ILFC grew into one of the most influential leasing companies in the aviation sector.

Please join the Tony Jannus Distinguished Aviation Society in honoring extraordinary accomplishments in the field of commercial aviation, by becoming a sponsor of the 2026 Tony Jannus Award. A portion of each sponsorship is contributed to our scholars awards program for student aviation enthusiasts. We'd like to invite you in congratulating Mr. Steven Udvar-Hazy, our 2026 Tony Jannus Award Honoree at our banquet at The JW Marriott Tampa on Thursday November 19, 2026 at 6:00pm.