IAMTI Will Also Be Recognized In May Ceremony

Aero-News has learned Canada's Aviation Hall of Fame will induct four new members at a formal ceremony in Montreal, Quebec on May 27. Each inductee made significant contributions to Canadian aviation -- in areas ranging from airborne medicine, to aircraft design, aerobatics, and soaring.

In addition to inducting Dr. A. Ross Tilley (1904-1988), Robert B. McIntyre (1913-1985), Walter Chmela, and Fern Villeneuve, the Hall will also recognize the International Aviation Management Training Institute (IAMTI) -- which is now part of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) -- with the Hall’s Belt of Orion Award for Excellence.

The four inductees bring the total number recognized for pioneering and advancing aviation and space endeavor in Canada to 200 since the Hall was established in 1973. Those accepted into the Hall are the select few, whose contributions have been recognized as of significant benefit to Canada. The Hall’s goal is to maintain, preserve and promote their accomplishments.

• Dr. A. Ross Tilley (1904-1988) developed revolutionary medical techniques as a result of recognizing the unique nature of the burns that WW2 aircrews suffered in aerial combat. His understanding of the need to treat both the body and the soul gave his patients the ability to help them reintegrate into society.
• Robert B. McIntyre (1913-1985) devoted a lifetime of skill, endeavor and passion on behalf of the Canadian aerospace industry, and made a significant contribution to each de Havilland Canada aircraft production program and major department, from the Mosquito in World War 2 to the Dash 8 program, in production to this day.
• Walter Chmela (1927 - ) of North York, Ontario, has displayed tireless devotion to the grass roots promotion and growth of soaring, including the development of practical supplementary glider programs for Air Cadets. These activities have been of significant importance to aviation in Canada.
• Fern Villeneuve (1927 - ) of Carrying Place, Ontario, developed a passion for military aerobatics, and was the initiator and lead member of the RCAF Golden Hawks team (precursor to the Snowbirds) in the 1959. His longstanding work with the Canadian Air Cadet gliding program have helped shape the modern Air Service and have proven a lasting benefit to Canadian aviation.

The Belt of Orion Award for Excellence -- Awarded to the International Aviation Management Training Institute (IAMTI), a pioneer in the field of aviation training and development, served as a powerful showcase for Canada's considerable expertise in aviation management and helped to position the country and the city of Montreal as a recognized world leader in international aviation.

FMI: www.cahf.ca/Main/main.htm