We are delighted to announce the winners of the 2024 Cranfield Aerospace and Aviation Alumni Awards.

In partnership with Cranfield Aerospace and Aviation Alumni Association (formerly the CCAAA), these awards recognise the exceptional achievements of our aerospace and aviation alumni while showcasing the global impact of ÂãÁÄÖ±²¥.

Meet the 2024 Distinguished Aviation Alumni Award winner

Angus Clarke (MSc Air Transport 2001)

Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer, Air France-KLM Group

Angus Clarke has spent his entire career in the aviation industry, exemplifying exceptional expertise and leadership.

Since September 2022, Angus has been serving as the Chief Commercial Officer at Air France-KLM, a position that highlights his standing and influence in the aviation sector. His career at Air France-KLM Group began in 2018, where he progressed from Senior Advisor to Executive Vice President of Strategy. During his time at Air France-KLM, Angus has contributed significantly to the airline's strategic direction and commercial success.

His extensive career also includes significant roles at Qantas Airways, IAS, Bluepoint Aviation, Air Canada, Air France and Blue Peak Aviation. These roles have showcased Angus’s leadership in the financial and operational aspects of the aviation industry: managing complex financial structures, corporate strategy, and development. His distinguished career and profound impact on the aviation sector, which is underpinned with a deep understanding and innovative approach to the industry, have solidified his reputation as a strategic thinker and leader.

Angus is also a sought-after speaker at global aviation events, sharing his insights and expertise with industry peers and stakeholders. His ability to address complex industry challenges and articulate innovative solutions has made him a respected voice in the aviation community and Angus consistently provides valuable perspectives that drive industry progress and inspire the next generation of aviation professionals.

Meet the 2024 Excellence in Achievement Award for Recent Aviation Graduates winner

Liz Aluvanze (MSc Air Transport Management 2014)

CEO, Kenya Association of Air Operators (KAAO)

Liz Aluvanze is an influential air transport professional with expertise in driving strategy, business growth, and implementing business process improvements who has made significant strides in the aviation industry through her extensive expertise and leadership.

Before joining KAAO, Liz held various influential roles in the aviation sector working with the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority, Kenya Airways, and Fastjet. Her remarkable career has enabled Liz to showcase her skills in air strategic management, engineering, regulatory policy, and air law, underscoring her strong technical foundation.

In her role at KAAO, Liz develops strategic collaborations with government bodies, legislators, and international partners, to develop and implement policies aimed at fostering a safe, efficient, and sustainable air transport system in Kenya. Her leadership has been instrumental in driving KAAO's advocacy efforts and promoting industry cohesion.

Beyond her current role, Liz holds influential positions serving on the KCAA Board of Directors and as Vice Chair for The Transport and Infrastructure Sector Board at the Kenya Private Sector Alliance. Liz is a sought-after speaker at global aviation events, where she shares her insights and expertise on various industry topics, further cementing her standing as a thought leader in the field.

Liz’s visionary approach continues to leave an indelible mark, ensuring that Kenya remains a pivotal player in the global aviation arena while setting benchmarks for operational efficiency, safety standards, and environmental stewardship.

Meet the 2024 Excellence in Achievement Award for Recent Aerospace Graduates winner

Subham Gupta (MSc Astronautics and Space Engineering 2018)

Chief Executive Officer at Space Resources Laboratory Ltd,

subham guptaSubham Gupta's impact in his field is both profound and far-reaching. Since embarking on his career in the small satellite industry in 2014, Subham has demonstrated exceptional prowess and innovation. He was instrumental in the development of SRMSAT-2, which is set to advance to a low lunar orbit, and his expertise extends to various space missions, including the design of satellites for Near-Earth Object (NEO) observation, showcasing his dedication to pushing the boundaries of space technology. Subham’s contributions to sustainable space exploration, including the development of a propulsion system aimed at mitigating space debris, reflect his commitment to a sustainable and accessible space future.

Under Subham's leadership, Space Resources Laboratory was honoured as 'Aerospace Company of the Year 2022,' and he has been recognised as an Exceptional Talent by the Royal Academy of Engineering and the UK Government, and featured in Forbes' 30 under 30 (Europe) in Manufacturing & Industry 2023.

As a speaker at high-profile conferences, such as the International Space Convention 2023, Subham has established himself as an influential figure, and his ongoing efforts to foster industry-academia collaboration through his connection with ÂãÁÄÖ±²¥ further highlights his dedication to advancing the aerospace sector.

Subham’s innovative spirit, resilience, and dedication to excellence make him an inspirational leader and a role model for aspiring aerospace professionals.