Dr. Nicolas Mateesco Matte Recipient 2010 Edward Warner Award

The 39th Edward Warner Award, the highest honour in the world of civil aviation, was conferred by the Council of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) on Dr. Nicolas Mateesco Matte on September 29, 2010, in recognition of his eminent contribution to the development, promotion and understanding of air and space law around the world.

The Award was presented by Roberto Kobeh González, President of the ICAO Council, on the opening day of the Organization's triennial Assembly in Montreal. In his remarks, Mr. Kobeh emphasized Dr. Matte's role as a driving force behind the development and prestige of the McGill University Institute of Air and Space Law.

"During his entire professorship, Dr. Matte contributed tirelessly to the growth and financial stability of the McGill Institute, laying the groundwork for what has become a centre of civil law excellence of worldwide reputation," said Mr. Kobeh.

Dr. Matte joined McGill Institute of Air and Space Law in 1961 as a visiting professor. He became the Director of the Institute in 1975, and founded both the Annals of Air and Space Law and the Centre for Research of Air and Space Law in 1976. He remained at the helm of the IASL until 1989, after which he was made Director Emeritus. Dr. Matte is now 97 years old, and remains very active.

The Edward Warner Award is bestowed, in the form of a gold medal, on an individual or institution, in recognition of outstanding contributions to the safe and orderly development of civil air transport.