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Delta Air Lines CEO Ed Bastian has been honored with the Tony Jannus Award, recognizing his significant contributions to the commercial aviation industry. The award is presented by the Tony Jannus Distinguished Aviation Society, a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving the legacy of the first commercial airline flight piloted by Tony Jannus on January 1, 1914. The society also supports high school students in Florida who are interested in pursuing careers in aviation.
The Tony Jannus Award is considered one of the highest accolades in the aviation industry and is awarded annually to individuals who have made lasting impacts on commercial aviation. Past recipients include notable aviation pioneers, aeronautical engineers, industry CEOs, and government leaders. This year's award will be presented to Bastian at a gala event in Tampa, celebrating the region's historical significance as the birthplace of commercial aviation.
Ed Bastian expressed his gratitude for receiving this honor: “On behalf of Delta’s more than 100,000 global professionals, I’m honored to accept the 2025 Tony Jannus Award,” he said. He highlighted that it is particularly meaningful as Delta celebrates its 100th anniversary this year. "We started flying barely a decade after Tony Jannus made his historic first flight across Tampa Bay," Bastian noted. He praised Delta's century-long legacy built on a people-first culture and innovation while thanking the Tony Jannus Society for their recognition and support for aspiring aviators in Florida.
