Air & Space Institute (ASI) student Antoni Bagrowski has been named the 2026 winner of the prestigious John Landymore Trophy, recognising him as the most outstanding Private Pilot Licence (PPL) Scholar of the year.
Currently in his second year of the Level 3 Extended Diploma in Aviation Operations at ASI, Antoni received the award at the annual Honourable Company of Air Pilots Awards and Trophies Banquet, held at the Guildhall in London.
The achievement marks a significant milestone in Antoni’s aviation journey, particularly given the highly competitive nature of the scholarship programme. With almost 1,000 applicants from across the UK, just 12 individuals were selected to receive a scholarship.
To then be recognised as the overall outstanding scholar and awarded the John Landymore Trophy is an exceptional achievement.
Reflecting on the experience, Antoni said: "It was absolutely incredible and a great honour to be selected as the winner of this award.
"This was particularly special given that the scholarship initially attracted nearly 1,000 applicants nationwide, with only 12 scholarships being awarded. To then be selected as the overall winner among the scholars was an incredibly proud and memorable moment.
"The banquet was held at the Guildhall in London, a magnificent and historic venue, which made the occasion even more special. It was a privilege to attend such a prestigious event in such an impressive setting."
The evening brought together distinguished guests and leading figures from across the international aviation community, providing Antoni with a unique opportunity to celebrate achievements, make valuable connections and hear from professionals working across a wide range of aviation sectors.
Among those in attendance were representatives from the US Air Force, Royal Canadian Air Force, Royal Air Force, British Army and civil aviation.
Two particularly memorable highlights for Antoni were meeting the Officer Commanding of the world-famous Red Arrows, Wing Commander Sasha Nash, and Colonel Jeremy Hansen, an astronaut involved in NASA’s Artemis II mission.
For Antoni, the event was not only an opportunity to celebrate an outstanding personal achievement but also a chance to gain inspiration from some of the most accomplished individuals in the aviation and aerospace industries.
Lecturer in Air & Space (Military & Defence) at the ASI, Pete Farrington, said: "Everyone at ASI is incredibly proud of Antoni and this fantastic achievement.
"His success is a testament to his dedication, commitment and passion for aviation, and we look forward to following his continued progress as he takes the next steps towards a career in this exciting industry."
