The National Aeronautic Association will hold an awards extravaganza, “A Spectrum of Achievement,” on Dec. 5, in Arlington, Va. — and you’re invited. The NAA promises hundreds of aviation luminaries and dozens of award-winners and record-setters for this event, the final celebration of the group’s 100th anniversary. Awards recognize accomplishments such as Steve Fossett’s record-breaking flight around the world and Scaled Composites’ achievement of private space flight. Others to be recognized for their achievements include aerobatic pilot Patty Wagstaff, flight instructor Martha King, balloonists Carol Rymer Davis and Richard Abruzzo, and helicopter crews who served in Iraq. To RSVP or for more information, please visit the NAA Web site or call 703-527-0226. Also, the Helicopter Association International will hold a “Salute to Excellence” banquet and awards ceremony on Feb. 27, 2006, in Dallas, Texas. The organization this week announced its award winners, honoring achievements by individuals or companies in the civil helicopter industry. The Igor I. Sikorsky Award for Humanitarian Service this year goes to all those who took part in the Hurricane Katrina rescue and relief effort.
