This year is a special one in the history of Warsaw’s aviation institution. The centennial anniversary of Łukasiewicz–ILOT is an occasion for numerous gatherings and reflections, but also for making ambitious plans for the years ahead. This was precisely the case on Thursday, October 22, during a ceremony attended not only by employees of the esteemed institution but also by representatives of our business partners, public administration, the scientific community, and guests of the IFAR Summit.
The event was opened by Prof. ILOT, Dr. Cezary Szczepański, Ph.D., Eng., director of the Łukasiewicz Institute of Aviation, who highlighted the significance of the centennial and the institute’s long-standing contribution to the development of the Polish aviation and space sectors. Dr. Hubert Cichocki, president of the Łukasiewicz Research Network, then delivered a laudatory speech summarizing the institution’s century of activity, in which he highlighted the significance of its body of work and the achievements of its employees.
One of the highlights of the ceremony was the presentation of the Honorary Badge for Services to Civil Aviation. The director of the Institute received the award from Infrastructure Minister Dariusz Klimczak. The medal, which was established in September of this year, was awarded for the first time in history.
Speaking on behalf of the Minister of Science and Higher Education, Dr. Marcin Kulaska, Eng., Izabela Najda-Jędrzejewska, deputy director at the Ministry of Science and Higher Education, took the floor. In her speech, she thanked the Institute’s staff for their dedication, emphasizing that it is precisely the people—scientists, engineers, and specialists—who form the foundation of scientific development and innovation. Another highlight of the evening was a congratulatory letter from Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defense Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz, which was read by Lt. Col. Dr. Eng. Wojciech Prokopowicz.
For a century, the Łukasiewicz Institute of Aviation has been building expertise that strengthens Poland’s security, economy, and standing. From the certification of the first Polish aircraft designs, through the work of scientists during the war, to today’s space and defense technologies, the Institute has continuously served the nation. For the past seven years, it has been part of the Łukasiewicz Research Network.
