IFA Whittle Safety Award Winner 2026 – Rachel Daeschler
Our winner of the 2026 IFA Whittle Award – Rachel Daeschler
This prestigious award is nominated by IFA members and honours the work of Sir Frank Whittle, father of the jet engine. It recognises an outstanding contribution to airworthiness and aviation safety.
In recognition of her outstanding contribution to aircraft certification, airworthiness and aviation safety, together with her leadership in advancing international cooperation and regulatory standards, we are delighted to announce Rachel Daeschler as the recipient of the 2026 IFA Whittle Safety Award.
Rachel has dedicated more than three decades to aviation certification and safety. She began her career with the French civil aviation authority, DGAC, before joining the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) in 2004. During her career at EASA, she has held a number of senior positions, including Large Aeroplane Project Certification Manager, Head of Safety Intelligence and Deputy Director of Strategy and Safety Management, before becoming Certification Director in 2019. She also spent time at ICAO in Montréal, supporting international safety oversight cooperation.
Among her early achievements at EASA was her involvement in the certification of the Airbus A380, one of the most significant aircraft certification programmes of its generation. As Project Certification Manager, Rachel was part of the team responsible for the aircraft’s safety and environmental approval.
Throughout her career, Rachel has played an important role in shaping certification processes and promoting collaboration between aviation authorities, industry and international organisations. Her contribution spans both established aviation programmes and the challenges presented by new and emerging technologies.
The IFA is delighted to recognise Rachel’s professional leadership, technical expertise and enduring commitment to aviation safety and airworthiness with the 2026 Whittle Safety Award.
Congratulations, Rachel, and thank you for your outstanding contribution to our industry.
