ICAS Sword of Excellence
Widely regarded as the highest honor an individual air show professional can receive, the Sword of Excellence recognizes exceptional leadership, service, innovation, vision, commitment, and selfless contributions to the air show industry.
A New Way to Nominate
Beginning in 2026, applications for the ICAS Sword of Excellence must be submitted through our new online application process. We appreciate your patience as we transition to this new system and work to make the application process more streamlined and efficient.
The deadline for submitting a nomination is August 31, 2026.
Four Decades of Excellence
Since 1981, the International Council of Air Shows (ICAS) Sword of Excellence has been synonymous with excellence in the air show industry. Presented annually, the award recognizes an individual whose outstanding service and personal contributions have had a significant and lasting impact on the air show community.
Since its creation in 1981, the stature and visibility of the Sword of Excellence have continued to grow along with its distinguished list of recipients. Honorees have included air show performers, event organizers, military representatives, government officials, and other industry leaders and advocates. What they share is a selfless commitment to advancing not only their own organizations and careers, but the air show industry as a whole.
Past Recipients
See the distinguished list of individuals honored with the ICAS Sword of Excellence.