The National Aviation Hall of Fame (NAHF) recently announced the outstanding individuals selected for induction into the Hall with the Class of 2025. These trailblazers have made groundbreaking contributions to aviation and aerospace, from breaking barriers and advancing safety standards to pioneering innovative technologies and inspiring future generations.
The 2025 induction ceremony will take place on Sept. 19 in Wichita, Kansas, marking the first time the city will host this national event.
“Hosting the National Aviation Hall of Fame’s 2025 induction ceremony in Wichita, the Air Capital of the World, is truly amazing,” said Susie Santo, president and CEO of Visit Wichita. “Wichita has a rich aviation history, making it a great honor to set the stage to recognize the next class of trailblazers in aviation and space.”
Since its founding in 1962, the Enshrinement into the NAHF has widely been recognized as the pinnacle of individual achievement in aviation and space exploration, celebrating pioneers who have shaped the industry while inspiring future generations to follow in their groundbreaking footsteps. With 270 notable individuals enshrined to date, it remains the only Congressionally chartered aviation hall of fame in the United States.
The inductees are chosen by a distinguished panel of over 130 aviation professionals from across the country who serve on the NAHF Board of Nominations, undertaking the challenging task of selecting the most deserving pioneers in air and space each year.
"We are thrilled by the extraordinary caliber of this year’s inductees and look forward to celebrating their remarkable achievements next fall," said Aimee Maruyama, NAHF president and CEO. "The Class of 2025 epitomizes the spirit of innovation and progress that defines aviation history. From revolutionizing helicopter design to advancing aviation safety and breaking barriers in military and space flight, these individuals have reshaped the industry. Their stories remind us of the power of passion, skill, and determination. We extend our sincere thanks to the Board of Nominations for their diligent and thoughtful work in this selection process."
The NAHF Class of 2025 inductees will be celebrated for their enduring impact on the aviation industry and their contributions to its future. Find more information and the list of attendees here.
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About Visit Wichita
Visit Wichita markets the greater Wichita area as a major convention and tourism destination, thereby enhancing the economic development of the city, county, region, and state. Visit Wichita is led by president and CEO Susie Santo, and in 2023, travel and tourism contributed nearly $1.5 billion in economic impact to the greater Wichita area. www.VisitWichita.com | @VisitWichita
About the National Aviation Hall of Fame
Formed through an Act of Congress in 1964, the National Aviation Hall of Fame (NAHF) is dedicated to honoring America’s aerospace pioneers. Considered by many to be a true national treasure, the NAHF serves as the only Congressionally-chartered aviation hall of fame and works tirelessly to confidently promote the vision, innovation, skill and courage of the national heroes who lent their genius to further our nation’s aerospace legacy. Founded and based in Dayton, OH, the NAHF is committed to informing the public of American aviation heroes, their accomplishments, and their impact on advances in aviation from Early Flight to Space Travel. The NAHF strives to create a distinctive educational resource that will inspire future generations to appreciate our nation’s extraordinary aviation heritage and the men and women who created it. nationalaviation.org
