FXExpress Publications Honors Top Industry Leaders in 2026
On August 3, 2026, FXExpress Publications, Inc. proudly announced the recipients of its annual Industry Leader Awards, recognizing the outstanding achievements of selected individuals within the travel sector. This prestigious accolade has celebrated the excellence in this field for five consecutive years, showcasing the impactful work of top executives who drive success in various segments such as aviation, hospitality, cruises, and tourism.
Among the distinguished honorees for this year are:
- - Best Aviation Industry Leader: Yvonne Makolo, CEO of RwandAir
- - Best Hotel Industry Leader: Barbara Muckermann, CEO of Kempinski Hotels
- - Best Cruise Line Industry Leader: Glen Moroney, Chairman and CEO of Scenic Group
- - Best Airport Industry Leader: Michael McMurray, Commissioner, Chicago Department of Aviation
- - Best Tourism Industry Leader: Carlo Micallef, CEO of Malta Tourism Authority
Francis X. Gallagher, the publisher and CEO of FXExpress Publications, expressed his admiration for this year’s awardees, stating, “This list is THE who's who of the travel industry, honoring and recognizing executives who make a difference in the world of travel every single day. Not only is it an honor to highlight their contributions, but it’s also a privilege to work alongside them in the incredible world of travel.” Gallagher further extended his congratulations to the deserving recipients, emphasizing their vital roles in the industry.
The process of determining the award winners began with internal nominations, allowing FXExpress Publications staff to recommend noteworthy industry leaders in each category. After compiling the nominations, a survey was sent out to all team members to finalize the honorees based on their contributions and impact.
The award ceremony is set to take place tonight at The Peninsula Chicago, where the industry’s elite gather to celebrate excellence and innovation across various sectors of travel. This event is not just a recognition of individual accomplishments, but a collective celebration of the collaborative spirit that characterizes the travel and tourism industry.
Each year, the Industry Leader Awards presented by FXExpress serve as a reminder of the hard work and dedication that countless professionals contribute to enrich the travel experience for millions. These awards also highlight the importance of leadership in responding to the evolving demands of travelers and the global environment, fostering a thriving industry.
FXExpress Publications, Inc. has its base in Yardley, Pennsylvania, and encompasses a diverse portfolio of travel-related publications, including Global Traveler, trazeetravel.com, and several others. As it continues to champion industry standards, FXExpress remains committed to recognizing excellence among leaders who shape the future of travel.
For more information about the award winners and the ceremony, visit
globaltravelerusa.com. It’s an exciting time for all those involved in travel as they look forward to new opportunities and innovation in the years to come.