'Living Legends of Aviation' Will Be Held January 22

The 6th Annual Living Legends of Aviation Awards will take flight on January 22 at the Beverly Hilton. Harrison Ford will receive with the Legends Aviation Legacy Award for his countless hours of service introducing thousands of young people to flight.

"Those who are bound to the Earth by gravity -- and are without an airplane -- don't really see the world the way a pilot does," Ford (above) said. "There's so much beauty in flight."

Sir Richard Branson will be celebrated with the Lifetime Aviation Entrepreneur Award for his never-ending creativity, passion, and thirst for discovery. As one of today's most accomplished entrepreneurs, Sir Richard Branson's innovation excellence is inspirational.

Often referred to as the Academy Awards of Aviation, the ceremony is produced by Kiddie Hawk Air Academy, a non-profit which introduces kids to aviation. "The award ceremony recognizes great work, dedication and accomplishments in aviation. The importance of leadership and commitment in these challenging economic times make this recognition event even more significant," said Paul Lips, spokesperson for the Kiddie Hawk Air Academy.

Additional awards presented by the Legends throughout the evening include:

• Special "Flown West" Tribute to the late pilot, producer, director Sydney Pollack and test pilot Johnny Myers
• Freedom of Flight Award:  Emily Howell-Warner, first female commercial pilot.
• Legends Top Flyer Award: USAF F-22 Raptor pilot Paul "Max" Moga.
• Aviation Industry Leader of the Year Award: Ed Bolen, President of the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA).

  

More honorees to be revealed the night of the ceremony.

FMI: www.airportjournals.com/legends