Ohio State University’s aviation programme received the prestigious Loening Trophy on Monday, recognising it as the nation's outstanding all-around collegiate aviation programme for 2026.

Representatives of flying Buckeyes accepted the award during 2026 Annual Collegiate Aviation Symposium, hosted by Ohio State and Alpha Eta Rho International Aviation Fraternity. Trophy has returned to its founding location and is now permanently displayed at Ohio State University Airport.

"I'm thrilled that we've brought the championship trophy back to Ohio State," said University President Walter "Ted" Carter Jr, a retired naval aviator with 38 years of military service. He described the achievement as testament to excellence of aviation programme and academic talents of students, faculty and staff.

Pure silver Loening Trophy, designed by jeweller Tiffany, was first commissioned in 1929 by aviation pioneer Grover Loening. He created the award to annually recognise most outstanding achievements of college aviation programmes. Loening, who served as aeronautical engineer for Wright Brothers, enlisted famous pilots including Amelia Earhart and Navy Commander John Towers to judge first competition.

Bob Clement, Alpha Eta Rho president and judging committee member, explained that Ohio State has won the award approximately four times previously. "First ever meeting of Intercollegiate Aviation Association took place at Ohio State in October 1929," Clement said. Trophy has been awarded continuously since 1929.

Ohio State remains the only surviving school among 14 original institutions present in 1929. Committee decided to permanently house trophy at Ohio State, recognising university as birthplace of collegiate aviation.

Second-year air transportation major Noah Alapat credited Ohio State's storied history for attracting him to programme. "We have a great airport, great airplanes, certified flight instructors and great aviation professors," Alapat said. He is currently researching how short-form social media consumption affects pilot concentration on flight tasks.

Future winning programmes will receive replica trophies while original remains at Ohio State. Symposium began Monday and concludes Tuesday at Ohio Union on Columbus campus.

Source: Ohio State News