Meritorious Service Award

We’re thrilled to announce that Aspeq’s own Aviation Manager, Gordon Alexander, has been awarded the prestigious Meritorious Service Award by the Royal Aeronautical Society (RAeS) in recognition of his outstanding contributions to New Zealand’s aerospace sector. This esteemed award acknowledges individuals who have demonstrated long-term dedication and practical achievements in advancing aviation in New Zealand. Gordon received a certificate, a citation, and a silver medal as part of this distinguished honour.

With a career spanning over 50 years, Gordon’s journey in aviation is as remarkable as it is diverse. At just 17 years old, he embarked on his career by joining the Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF) as the youngest pilot trainee at the time. His early years were defined by helicopter operations in challenging and remote locations: he transported soldiers in Singapore, supported scientific missions in Antarctica, and flew search and rescue missions in New Zealand’s Southern Alps, as well as disaster relief operations across New Zealand and the Pacific.

Gordon's commitment to aviation excellence led him to become an instructor on the Strikemaster jet trainer in the RNZAF, where he instilled high standards in future generations of pilots. His career also took him to Australia on a flying instructor exchange program with the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF), where he flew as a member of the formation display team on the Macchi MB-326 aircraft during the 1983 America’s Cup Victory Parade.

Returning to New Zealand, Gordon reached a peak in his Air Force career by commanding and leading a squadron of 15 aircraft and 120 personnel, responsible for the training and graduation standards of all RNZAF pilots, including strike pilots. With 5,000 flying hours and 20 years of service, he then transitioned to the corporate jet sector before joining Airways as an ATC instructor and manager of international contracts.

Today, as Aspeq’s Aviation Manager, Gordon oversees vital flight examining activities that support New Zealand’s civil aviation sector. His leadership extends beyond Aspeq; he also serves as Vice President of the Aviation Industry Association and sits on the RAeS Council and 2024 Symposium Committee.

Reflecting on this achievement, Gordon shared: “Receiving the Meritorious Service Award is an incredible honour, and I am humbled to be recognised among so many accomplished peers in the aviation industry. This journey has been marked by incredible opportunities and meaningful challenges, together with a great deal of satisfaction and enjoyment, and I am grateful to have been able to contribute to the growth and safety of aviation in New Zealand and beyond.”

Congratulations to Gordon on this well-deserved recognition! His dedication and expertise continue to make a lasting impact on Aspeq and the broader aviation community.