LONDON, England – The London-based Aviation Club of the United Kingdom will celebrate its 25th anniversary with a reception at the House of Lords next Thursday 16 July.

Host for the evening is Lord Glendonbrook, more familiar to most as Michael Bishop, and knowing Michael it would seem likely that he will be commenting on the recommendations of the Airport’s Commission. Sir Michael founded British Midland Airways (BMA and later BMI) and sold the carrier (and its Heathrow slots) to Lufthansa.

Over the last quarter century nearly 150 distinguished members of the aviation industry have spoken in the Nash Room of the Institute of Directors. For many the most exciting moment was 6 July 2005 when the then Qantas Chief Executive, Geoff Dixon, announced to the assembly that London had won the Olympics for 2012. It was afterwards into Trafalgar Square for the celebrations.

The first speaker, in February 1990, was Cecil Parkinson, then Secretary of State for Transport. Michael Bishop was next up, both introduced by Peter Sanguinetti, the founding Chairman.

Attendance is welcome by members and guests but needs pre-booking.

LONDON, England – The London-based Aviation Club of the United Kingdom will celebrate its 25th anniversary with a reception at the House of Lords on Thursday 16 July.

Host for the evening will be Lord Glendonbrook, more familiar to most as Michael Bishop, but whether Sir Michael will have anything to say on current affairs remains to be seen. It is possible!

If British Midland Airways (BMA and later BMI) were around today he would certainly be commenting on Sir Howard Davies Airports Commission report, assuming its recommendations will have been published by that time. Attendance is welcome by members and guests but needs pre-booking.

The Aviation Club has a new Chairman, Jane Johnston, Head of Corporate Affairs at the UK’s major air traffic control provider. She has been at NATS for 10 years and was for 17 years previously at British Airways. Jane Middleton has stood down with the completion of her three years’ tenure.

Long-standing full-time Secretary Naomi King is retiring, somewhat to the relief of husband Anthony. No more worrying if the Guest of Honour is turning up, or re-arranging the place settings “on the hoof”. She will be missed. Her replacement is Philippa Ewart, formerly of the Farnborough Air Show, a well-known person in the industry.