Recognition as Jackie Dujmovic Honored in London

Recognition as Jackie Dujmovic Honoured in London – In the grand setting of London’s Guildhall, surrounded by centuries of history, Jackie Dujmovic was announced as the recipient of the Grand Master’s Australian Medal. This recognition was bestowed on Jackie by the Honourable Company of Air Pilots under the patronage of King Charles III.

Who is the Honourable Company of Air Pilots?

The Honourable Company of Air Pilots, established in 1929, is one of London’s historic Livery Companies. These are organisations originally formed to uphold professional integrity and mastery within their crafts. Today, it stands as one of the world’s most respected aviation institutions. It represents pilots, navigators, engineers, and aviation professionals across civil and military sectors. Operating under a Royal Charter and guided by the King’s patronage, the Company promotes the highest standards of air safety, training, and airmanship. Its awards are regarded internationally as among the most prestigious recognitions a pilot or aviation professional can receive.

The Grand Masters Award

The Grand Master’s Australian Medal is awarded only to those who have made a truly outstanding contribution to aviation within the Australian region. This includes Australian nationals abroad. Recipients are recognised for demonstrating technical excellence, innovation, or the development of groundbreaking operational procedures that enhance safety and performance. Past winners of this prestigious award have included the RAAF pilots team behind the centenary flypast in Canberra and the Qantas’ pilot academy. For Jackie Dujmovic, this award represents years of commitment to building safer skies. It also signifies her role in advancing the capabilities of uncrewed aviation.

Through her leadership at Hover UAV, Jackie has been instrumental in pushing the boundaries of drone operations. She particularly impacted the area of Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) flight and regulatory reform. Her work has bridged the gap between innovation and compliance. She ensures new technologies are introduced responsibly while unlocking enormous potential for industries. This includes sectors ranging from energy and infrastructure to environmental monitoring. Other recipients of awards delivered on the evening can be found here.

The Gala in London

The awards gala at Guildhall brought together aviation professionals from around the world to celebrate excellence in flight. The recognition of Jackie Dujmovic marked not just a personal achievement but also a proud moment for Australian aviation. Her recognition highlights how innovation from Australia continues to influence the global aviation landscape.

The night was enriched by time-honoured rituals, including the Loving Cup Ceremony — a centuries-old custom originating from the Old Saxon monasteries. In this tradition, a shared cup filled with spiced wine was passed from hand to hand as a symbol of unity and goodwill, reminding all present of the enduring fellowship that binds aviators across generations.

Jackie’s success also carries a broader meaning. It showcases the growing leadership of women within the aviation and emerging technology sectors. Her journey inspires others to pursue excellence with the same determination and integrity. Her award stands as proof that dedication, collaboration, and a genuine passion for safer skies can earn recognition on the world stage.

With the Honourable Company of Air Pilots, the Grand Master’s Australian Medal is not just an industry award. It is an acknowledgment endorsed by international industry professionals. For Jackie Dujmovic, it is a defining milestone in a career built on innovation and leadership.

Congratulations to Jackie Dujmovic, whose achievements have now been formally recognised by one of aviation’s oldest and most respected institutions.