United Kingdom– Leading Edge Aviation (LEAL), which operates flight training bases across the UK and Spain, proudly celebrates a remarkable night of success at the inaugural Pilot Careers Live Professional Flight Training Awards 2025. With an impressive 10 nominations across 8 categories, LEAL’s students, instructors, and the academy as a whole were recognised for their outstanding contributions to aviation training.

Leading Edge Aviation emerged victorious in two prestigious categories:

• Dickie Hugheswinning Best Ground School Instructor
• Ashleigh Duggan securing Best Modular Student

This achievement highlights the exceptional quality of LEAL’s training and the dedication of both their instructors and students.

Recognising Excellence in Flight Training

Beyond these wins, LEAL was proud to see multiple team members and students shortlisted across key categories, reflecting the academy’s commitment to fostering talent, innovation, and excellence in aviation education.

Award Winners:

• Dickie Hughes – Best Ground School Instructor
  “Dickie’s patience, expertise, and ability to simplify complex aviation theory have shaped countless successful pilots. His dedication to student success makes him truly deserving of this accolade.”
• Ashleigh Duggan – Best Modular Student
  “A recipient of multiple scholarships, including the BWPA Oriana Pepper Scholarship, Ashleigh’s relentless drive and passion for aviation make her an exemplary modular ATPL student.”

Shortlisted Finalists:

• Roman Kastelijn – Best Integrated Student
• Matthew Bristow-Slade – Best Modular Student
• Craig Evans & Rob Cole – Best Flight Instructor
• Frederick Dai – Most Supportive Student
• Stephen Rees – Significant Contribution to Professional Flight Training
• Joanne Doughty – Achievement Through Adversity

A Commitment to Excellence

CEO Andy McFarlane expressed his pride in the academy’s achievements, stating: “We are thrilled to have been recognised across so many categories. Dickie and Ashleigh’s wins are a testament to the dedication of our entire team and the high calibre of students we train. This night was not just about awards—it was a celebration of the passion, resilience, and innovation that drive the future of aviation training.”

Looking Ahead

With this recognition, Leading Edge Aviation continues to set new benchmarks in professional flight training. These awards reinforce their mission to provide world-class aviation education, supporting aspiring pilots in achieving their dreams.

About Leading Edge Aviation
Leading Edge Aviation is a rapidly expanding pilot training academy with a fresh approach and an emphasis on holistic training. Offering the highest standards of regulatory technical training, students also benefit from a comprehensive professional and personal development curriculum to enhance non-technical skills. Based at London Oxford Airport and Alhama, Southern Spain, with a commitment to holistic pilot development, Leading Edge Aviation offers a range of modular and integrated training programmes, including the innovative LEAP (Leading Edge Airline Preparation) course. Facilities at both locations support a comprehensive educational experience, combining modern aircraft and simulators, advanced learning technologies, and a vibrant student living environment.

Source: Leading Edge Aviation
Photo Credit: Leading Edge Aviation