University College Birmingham is flying high after being hailed runner-up for best training provider at the aviation industry's national awards.

The University was up for the Aviation Professional Training Award at the Aviation Industry Awards at Park Plaza Riverbank, London, attended by the University's aviation lecturing team, as well as staff from the Department of Hospitality and Tourism and alumni.

Katie Bickley, senior lecturer and programme lead, said: "We were just pipped at the post, but are incredibly proud to make the finals of such a huge event for the industry.

"Our experienced team is amazing and dedicated to improving the industry and in past year alone, over 50 of our graduates entered the industry in positions such as airport operations managers and sustainability managers.

"To be recognised for our impact on the aviation sector and commitment to safety, sustainability and innovation is incredible."

The annual Aviation Industry Awards recognise and celebrate the achievements of all UK aviation stakeholders, from airlines and airports to cutting-edge manufacturers and innovative suppliers. 

With over 75 years’ experience in tourism training, University College Birmingham was up against Blake Emergency Services, Crosby Aviation Training and DHL Air (UK) for the award, open to any training institution, technical training college or business involved in the delivery of aviation related training in the UK.

Entrants needed to have made a significant contribution to aviation training, particularly in the areas of light crew, cabin crew, safety, engineering, technical or other specialist aviation training in the last 12 months.

Judges specifically looked at how institutions delivered on core objectives around curriculum, development of course accreditation, how courses improved students' effectiveness in the wider industry and their contribution to aviation safety improvement.