Europe’s regional aviation sector gathered in Belfast last week for the annual European Regions Airline Association (ERAA) General Assembly, where airlines from across the continent were recognised for achievements in connectivity, innovation, sustainability and workforce development.
The headline award, ERAA Airline of the Year 2026, was presented to Widerøe, Norway’s regional airline, which also captured the Regional Connectivity Award. Judges praised the carrier’s role in maintaining essential air links for remote communities, supporting regional economies and investing in future talent, innovation and sustainability.
For Ireland, there was notable success as ASL Airlines Ireland received the People and Culture Award, recognising the airline’s commitment to employee engagement, leadership development, wellbeing and inclusion. The award also acknowledged the company’s efforts to support and develop the next generation of aviation professionals.
Accepting the award, ASL Airlines Ireland Managing Director John Rawl said the recognition reflected the work undertaken over the past 18 months to strengthen the company’s culture and ensure it continues to evolve in a changing aviation environment.
Innovation was recognised through the ERAA Innovation Award, which went to KLM Cityhopper. Judges highlighted the airline’s use of engineering solutions, predictive technologies and industry collaboration to improve operational resilience, efficiency and sustainability.
Meanwhile, French regional carrier HOP! claimed the ERAA Sustainability Award for measurable reductions in emissions, energy consumption and waste across its operations. The airline was praised for turning environmental commitments into practical actions both in the air and on the ground.
The awards were presented during the ERAA General Assembly, held in Belfast from 6th-8th October, and celebrated airlines that are helping shape the future of regional air transport across Europe. ERAA said this year’s winners demonstrated the crucial role regional aviation continues to play in connecting communities, supporting economic development and advancing sustainability goals.
As Europe’s regional carriers face ongoing challenges including fleet availability, supply chain pressures and the transition to more sustainable operations, the awards highlighted examples of airlines successfully adapting and continuing to deliver essential connectivity to the regions they serve.
