Thomas Flohr, Founder and Chairman of VistaJet, will receive the "Aviation Entrepreneur of the Year Award." In 2004, Mr. Flohr introduced a revolutionary aviation business model focused entirely around his customers and brand new, identical aircraft. With over 55 Global and Challenger jets, the company has assembled the largest privately owned Bombardier fleet. VistaJet is the world's fastest growing private aviation company with a service area covering more than 80% of the globe.
John Travolta, the "Official Ambassador of Aviation," hosts the annual black tie event. Considered the most prestigious and important recognition event in aviation, the awards will be held at the Beverly Hilton in Los Angeles January 22, 2016. Awards include the Harrison Ford Aviation Legacy Award" and a "Flown West" segment, which pays tribute to "Legends" lost, followed by the induction of new "Living Legends of Aviation." The Awards are produced by Kiddie Hawk Air Academy, a 501-c-3 non-profit organization whose mission is to educate and spark children's passion for aviation.
The Living Legends of Aviation will also honor William "Bill" Chiles, recently retired President and CEO of Bristow Group, a leading provider of helicopter services to the worldwide offshore energy industry, operating 500 helicopters flying in 22 countries with 5,000 employees. Mr. Chiles will receive the "Vertical Flight Hall of Fame Award," presented by Bell Helicopter.
Miles O'Brien, an instrument rated pilot and independent American broadcast news journalist specializing in science, technology, and aerospace, will receive the "Aviation Inspiration and Patriotism Award."
Among the other awards will be the "Lifetime Industry Leader Award" presented by "Living Legends of Aviation" Steven Udvar-Hazy and Herb Kelleher to Mr. Ray Conner, the President and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes. Boeing Commercial aircraft account for the majority of Boeing's total revenues, with nearly 12,000 jetliners in service worldwide, roughly 75 percent of the world fleet.
The 13th Annual "Living Legends of Aviation Awards" will salute Bob Hoover.
