A toast to teamwork: When airspace met ale at the Association Excellence Awards

The CATS Global Council is used to flying high — but in November 2025, our ambitions briefly touched down in a rather different sector: beer.

At the Association Excellence Awards in London’s QEII Centre, the Council was proud to be named a finalist for the “Sector Representation Award,” recognising organisations that deliver exceptional leadership and advocacy for their sectors. It was a moment that celebrated not just air traffic management, but the collaborative spirit driving the CATS vision for Future Skies – a global effort to reimagine how airspace will evolve in an increasingly digital, automated, and sustainable world.

Representing CANSO were Michelle Bishop (Director Programmes) and Eduardo Garcia (Senior Manager Future Skies), who joined fellow nominees from across industries — from manufacturing and payments to pest control and employability. It was, in short, a wonderfully eclectic crowd.

And the winner? The British Beer and Pub Association, also known as The Voice of Brewers & Pubs.

Still, being recognised alongside such diverse and impactful organisations is no small feat. The CATS Global Council continues to represent aviation’s forward thinkers — connecting air navigation service providers, regulators, innovators, and new entrants in shaping a more seamless and sustainable global airspace system.

So while we didn’t take home the trophy this time, we did raise a glass to collaboration, innovation, and a future where skies (and spirits) remain high.