posted 10-16-2023 07:32 PM               

The National Aviation Hall of Fame
Announces the 'Class of 2024'

Ground-breaking engineers, leaders in aviation safety and access, a NASA mathematician, and a pioneering NASA astronaut are all included in this remarkable group.

The National Aviation Hall of Fame (NAHF) is excited to reveal the exceptional individuals chosen for induction in the prestigious Class of 2024. This illustrious Annual Enshrinement event is set to take place in the fall of 2024.

Founded in 1962, the NAHF has been a symbol of excellence in aviation and space exploration. With 262 distinguished honorees inducted, it stands as the only Congressionally-chartered aviation hall of fame in the United States. A dynamic panel of over 130 aviation professionals from across the nation constitutes the NAHF Board of Nominations. Each year, they face the arduous task of selecting the most deserving air and space pioneers for induction.

"We are delighted with the exceptional caliber of this year's inductees, and we eagerly anticipate their induction next autumn," stated Tom Lodge, Chair of the NAHF Board of Nominations. "From innovators and industry trailblazers Burrell, Kao, and Sutter to forward-thinking visionaries like Bateman and Chabrian and the esteemed aerospace pioneers Gregory and Johnson, the Class of 2024 within the NAHF embodies the very essence of excellence in aviation. We extend our heartfelt appreciation to the Board of Nominations for their rigorous and meticulous selection process."

Meet the Distinguished Class of 2024

The NAHF Class of 2024 is a remarkable ensemble of individuals who have left an indelible mark on the aviation and space industries. Their contributions span a wide spectrum of accomplishments, furthering the frontiers of flight and exploration. This year's honorees include:

• (The late) Don Bateman
  Aerospace engineer, revolutionized aviation safety by developing groundbreaking innovations, including the Ground Proximity Warning System (GPWS) and Enhanced Ground Proximity Warning System (EGPWS) that provide critical alerts to pilots about their proximity to the ground, obstacles, and terrain.
  
  
• (The late) Gary Burrell and Dr. Min Kao
  Co-founders of Garmin brought GPS technology to a broad range of consumer markets, including aviation. The duo brought products to market that revolutionized avionics, including the world's first fully certified GPS receiver for instrument approaches, the G1000 glass-integrated flight deck, and inspired Garmin Autoland, the world's first certified autonomous system that activates during an emergency to safely land an aircraft without human intervention earning Garmin the prestigious Robert J. Collier Trophy.
  
  
• Dr. Peggy Chabrian
  Founder and long-time president of Women in Aviation International. Grew the organization from its first conference attended by 150 people in 1990 to an organization representing more than 15,000 women in all aspects of aviation today. Her unwavering commitment has been instrumental in fostering gender diversity and empowering women in the aviation industry.
  
  
• Col. Fredrick Gregory
  United States Air Force pilot, accomplished military engineer, distinguished test pilot, NASA astronaut, and former NASA Deputy Administrator. One of the pioneering first three African-Americans to venture into space, the first African-American to pilot a shuttle mission in 1985, and the first to command a space mission in 1989.
  
  
• (The late) Katherine Gobel Johnson
  American mathematician, played an indispensable role in NASA's early space exploration endeavors. Her precise calculations of orbital mechanics, executed during her tenure as a NASA employee, were pivotal in ensuring the success of not only the first but also subsequent U.S. crewed spaceflights.
  
  
• (The late) Joseph ( Joe ) Sutter
  "Father of the 747". Chief engineer for the development of the 747. His lifelong career at The Boeing Company, technical leadership, and management skills were instrumental in developing three generations of advanced transports, significantly contributing to U.S. preeminence in civil aeronautics.

posted 12-01-2023 03:04 PM               

The National Aviation Hall of Fame Announces 2024 Enshrinement Ceremony

National Aviation Hall of Fame to celebrate 60th Annual Enshrinement in Dayton, Ohio September 14, 2024.

The National Aviation Hall of Fame (NAHF) is thrilled to announce the 60th Annual Enshrinement ceremony, set to take place on September 14, 2024, at our iconic home in Dayton, Ohio. This milestone event promises to be a captivating celebration of aviation excellence, honoring the individuals whose groundbreaking contributions have shaped the world of flight.

The National Aviation Hall of Fame, established in 1962, has been dedicated to honoring America's outstanding air and space pioneers for over six decades. This year's Enshrinement ceremony marks a significant moment in our history, as we recognize the achievements and legacy of individuals who have left an indelible mark on aviation.

The ceremony will take place at the National Museum of the United States Air Force. Attendees can expect a memorable evening filled with inspiring stories, remarkable achievements, and a shared passion for the incredible advancements in aviation.

Throughout the evening, we will enshrine individuals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, innovation, and dedication to the world of flight. The NAHF Class of 2024 is a remarkable ensemble of individuals who have left an indelible mark on the aviation and space industries. Their contributions span a broad spectrum of accomplishments, furthering the frontiers of flight and exploration.

"The 60th Annual Enshrinement is a momentous occasion for the National Aviation Hall of Fame. We are proud to celebrate the achievements of these exceptional individuals who have played a pivotal role in advancing aviation and shaping its future, right here in Dayton where the Wright Brothers began," said Aimee Maruyama, President/CEO of the National Aviation Hall of Fame.

As part of the celebration, the NAHF will host a series of events leading up to the Enshrinement ceremony, providing opportunities for aviation enthusiasts, industry professionals, and the public to join in the celebration. The President's Reception will be held on September 13 where the NAHF will acknowledge individuals and teams who have made a significant impact in their field with our annual awards. Nominations are now being accepted and are due by January 10, 2024.

As part of the celebration, the NAHF is excited to announce that the 60th Annual Enshrinement sponsorship packages are now available. Individuals and organizations interested in supporting this prestigious event and aligning their brand with the legacy of aviation excellence are encouraged to contact Katie Main, our Director of Development and Communications, at kmain@nationalaviation.org or 614-273-9966.

In addition, tickets for the Enshrinement ceremony will be available starting March 1, 2024. Take advantage of the opportunity to be part of this historic celebration. Stay tuned for further details and event updates.

For more information about the 60th Annual Enshrinement, sponsorships, and related events, please visit our website at www.nationalaviation.org or contact Katie Main at kmain@nationalaviation.org or (937) 256-0944.

posted 03-12-2024 03:00 PM               

The National Aviation Hall of Fame to Present Prestigious Armstrong Award to Larry Connor

The National Aviation Hall of Fame (NAHF) is proud to announce Larry Connor as the recipient of the prestigious Armstrong Award for 2024. This esteemed award recognizes individuals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, innovation, and contributions to the advancement of aviation and aerospace.

Larry Connor, a seasoned aviator, began flying in 2007 and has flown 16 different aircraft, including an F-5 fighter jet. He is also a notable entrepreneur and philanthropist, and has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to aerospace exploration and education. His remarkable achievements have left an indelible mark and inspired countless individuals nationwide.

"Larry Connor exemplifies the pioneering spirit of aviation, embodying the innovation and determination that define Neil Armstrong's legacy. His receipt of the Armstrong Award is a testament to his contributions to the advancement of flight and exploration." said Aimee Maruyama, President and CEO of the National Aviation Hall of Fame.

As the founder and CEO of The Connor Group, a leading real estate investment firm, Larry Connor has not only achieved success in the business world but has also utilized his resources to support initiatives that promote aviation and space exploration. His recent endeavor as the commander of the historic Axiom Space Axiom Mission 1 further solidified his commitment to pushing the boundaries of human exploration and inspiring future generations to pursue careers in STEM fields.

"The legacy of Neil Armstrong is etched not only on the lunar surface but in the hearts of all who dare to dream beyond the horizon, so I am deeply honored to receive the 2024 Neil Armstrong Award from the National Aviation Hall of Fame," said Mr. Connor. "Armstrong pursued the impossible with a profound sense of purpose, and this ethos has always driven my pursuit of the extraordinary and the core values of The Connor Group — do the right thing, people count and relentlessly pursue excellence with a focus on long-term achievement. I am humbled to carry this legacy of exploration and discovery alongside past winners and commit to pushing beyond conventional boundaries in the spirit of true adventure."

The Armstrong Award will be presented to Larry Connor in conjunction with the 60th Annual Enshrinement Dinner & Ceremony during the President's Reception on September 13, 2024. Over 600 people are expected to attend two days of events in Dayton, including industry leaders and several returning Enshrinees, including former NASA astronauts Charlie Bolden and Hoot Gibson, aviation visionary and test pilot Clay Lacy, general aviation titans Dale Klapmeier, and John & Martha King.

The ceremony features the formal installment of the NAHF Enshrinee Class of 2024 (The late) Don Bateman (The late) Joseph "Joe" Sutter, Dr. Peggy Chabrian., (The late) Gary Burrell & Dr. Min Kao, Col. Frederick Gregory, and (The late) Katherine Johnson.

The 60th NAHF's Annual Enshrinement Dinner & Ceremony is open to the public by advance registration only. Sponsorship opportunities are available.