John Travolta na-akwado ihe nrite nke Star-Studded Aviation Awards na Beverly Hilton Hotel

The 21st annual Living Legends of Aviation Awards were hosted by John Travolta, who is known as the Official Ambassador of Aviation, at the Beverly Hilton Hotel. Joining him were renowned figures including Morgan Freeman and Kurt Russell, as well as musician Kenny G, and over 70 Living Legends of Aviation, all contributing to an unforgettable evening.

Prince Harry, The Duke of Sussex, was honored as a Living Legend during the evening’s festivities. He dedicated the initial decade of his adult life to serving in the British Army, fulfilling crucial roles as a forward air controller and an Apache helicopter pilot during two deployments in Afghanistan.

Prince Harry expressed his pride in being acknowledged among a remarkable and motivating collective of individuals. He described flying as a transformative journey, an enchanting encounter that not only inspires a sense of liberation, but also calls for the safeguarding of freedom.

Lauren Sánchez was honored with the prestigious Elling Halvorson Vertical Flight Hall of Fame Award. She is a renowned journalist, news anchor, and the visionary behind Black Ops Aviation, a pioneering aerial film and production company founded by a woman.

Ms. Sánchez stated that as she accepts the award tonight, she commits to persist as an advocate and mentor, aiming to pave the way for additional women in aviation.

Other award recipients included:

• Mark Burns received the “Lifetime Aviation Industry Leader Award.” Mr. Burns was named president of Gulfstream Aerospace Corp. in July 2015. He has spent more than 35 years with Gulfstream.

• Laurans A. Mendelson, received the “Kenn Ricci Lifetime Aviation Entrepreneur Award.” Mr. Mendelson is the Chairman, President and CEO of HEICO.

• Kyle Clark received the “Eren Ozmen Entrepreneur of the Year Award.” Mr. Clark Founded BETA Technologies, a Vermont-based electric aircraft startup in 2017.

• Linden Blue received the first “Dr. Sam B Williams Technology Award.” Gregg Williams, President and CEO of Williams International honored his Father by presenting the inaugural award to Mr. Blue, who is the Vice Chairman of General Atomics.

• Lance Toland received the “Freedom of Flight Award.” Mr. Toland is the owner of Lance Toland Associates, one of the most respected names in aviation insurance worldwide.

In addition to Prince Harry, three others were inducted as Living Legends including:

• Fred George – Mr. George was a Navy pilot with over 300 carrier landings and is now a world-renowned aviation writer.

• Steve Hinton – Mr. Hinton is an American aviator who held a world speed record from 1979 – 1989. He has flown as a pilot for films, working on approximately 100 motion pictures and TV productions.

• Marc Parent – Mr. Parent is President and CEO of CAE and led CEA’s growth in simulation products and training and support services in commercial and business aviation, defense, security, and healthcare sectors.

The Legends also paid tribute to four Legends who have “Flown West” in the past year: Singer Jimmy Buffett, Gulfstream executive Larry Flynn, pilot and explorer Hamish Harding, and actor Treat Williams.