Critical Care Flight Nurse Who Pioneered Aviation Telemedicine

The National Aeronautic Association (NAA) announced that Joan Sullivan Garret has been chosen to be this year’s recipient of the prestigious Wright Brothers Memorial Trophy for her innovative and longtime work in aviation telemedicine.

Ms. Sullivan Garret was a critical care flight nurse when her team responded to an accident and was unable to save a young victim. This inspired her to found MedAire in 1985 to address aviation medical preparedness by providing flight crews with the knowledge, skill, and resources to manage in-flight medical emergencies.

Two years later she established MedLink, the first 24/7 global aviation medical response center staffed with emergency physicians.

MedAire is now the world’s leading provider of remote emergency medical safety and security services. The company serves more than 180 airlines worldwide as well as 6,800 private aircraft, managing about 900 emergency calls per day. Last year alone, MedAire managed 157,000 cases.

Amy Spowart, President and CEO of NAA said, “The NAA’s Wright Trophy recognizes a living American for significant public service of enduring value to aviation in the United States. Joan’s visionary leadership and dedication have enhanced aviation safety for over four decades, permanently raising industry standards and saving countless lives. Her innovation embodies the spirit and legacy of the Wright Brothers.”

Sullivan Garrett said, “Through innovation, resilience, and the fortitude to challenge norms, the Wright brothers changed the world. To be cast in their light is humbling to the core. I am deeply honored. And I'm hopeful the brothers' legacy, the Wright Memorial Trophy, and all those who have received it serve as a testament to aeronautical professionals everywhere: you can make a difference. My heartfelt thanks to both the NAA and selection committee members.”

The Wright Trophy has been awarded since 1948 and is on display at the Smithsonian’s National Air & Space Museum. In partnership with the Aero Club of Washington, the trophy will be presented this year at the Marriott Marquis Hotel in Washington, DC, on December 11, 2025.

Steve Morrissey, President of the Aero Club of Washington said, “The Aero Club was honored to celebrate last year's recipient, the late Ben Baldanza, with a capacity crowd. This year, thanks to the hard work of the Wright Trophy Selection Committee, we have another worthy recipient to celebrate.”

FMI:  naa.aero/