Ed Bastian Honored for His Commercial Aviation Leadership

At an annual ceremony in downtown Tampa, the 2025 Tony Jannus Award was presented to none other than the head honcho at one of the most successful airlines in history: Delta CEO Ed Bastian. The award, now in its 61st year, is given to individuals who have made significant contributions to commercial aviation.

The Tony Jannus Award dates back to 1964, established to honor the world’s first scheduled commercial airline service. The historic flight took one paying passenger across Tampa Bay on January 1, 1914. It lasted a mere 23 minutes and was piloted by Tony Jannus, hence the award’s name. The society behind the award continues to use Jannus’s achievement as a platform to spotlight major figures in the industry, with Bastian now joining a list that includes names like Juan Trippe, Herb Kelleher, and Captain Chesley “Sully” Sullenberger.

This year’s ceremony was hosted at the JW Marriott Tampa Water Street, with Tampa International Airport (TPA) serving as a Legacy Sponsor alongside airports in Orlando and Sarasota-Bradenton. Former Delta CEO Richard Anderson, who was recognized in 2013, returned to present the award to his successor.

“Ed, your leadership has guided Delta with purpose, resilience, and humanity,” said TPA CEO Michael Stephens. “It proves that the true differentiator in aviation isn’t found in your fleet or facilities, but in its greatest strength—its people.”

Bastian’s tenure with Delta spans more than 25 years, during which he has played a central role in shaping the airline’s long-term strategy. Despite facing bankruptcy during his time as Chief Financial Officer and being hit by the pandemic four years into his CEO term, Bastian not only kept the airline afloat but also helped it prosper.

“His visionary leadership has helped position Delta as one of the world’s premier international airlines,” said 2025 Tony Jannus Society Co-Chair David Long. “We are pleased to honor him with one of the industry’s highest accolades.”

In addition to recognizing Bastian, the Tony Jannus Society continued its annual tradition of supporting emerging aviation professionals. Six Florida college students pursuing aviation careers received Tony Jannus Scholars Awards of $5,000 each and earned a tour of Delta’s headquarters in Atlanta.

FMI: www.tonyjannus.com