About the time that you read this, one of the most pivotal leadership posts in aviation will have transferred onto a new person. Jack Olcott will retire, Shelley Longmuir will take his place, and a bit of aero-history will have changed significantly. While not always in agreement with Olcott's decisions or style, we can only respect the talent and professionalism he brought to an often contentious posting. He served with class and with insight... and we wish him well in his retirement... while also hoping that retirement will mean that we will still benefit from his insights here and there.

Soon to be NBAA President Emeritus Olcott filed the following statement shortly before handing over the reins of leadership to Ms. Longmuir...

President's Perspective: Farewell, and Thank You

"It is with appreciation for the opportunities of the last 11 years and with great respect for NBAA’s Membership that I step down from the presidency of your Association, a position I have been fortunate to occupy since May 1, 1992. On June 24, your Board of Directors will appoint Ms. Shelley A. Longmuir NBAA president, and I will assume the title of president emeritus along with John Winant, the gentleman who served the Association so well from the 1950s to the mid-1980s.

Please join me in wishing Shelley well. She is a highly respected aviation professional with an outstanding education and valuable experience on Capitol Hill. You will be well served.

I see great opportunities ahead for our community. The value of business aviation as a necessary form of transportation has never been higher. You and your colleagues demonstrate that fact daily as you help your company maximize the productivity of people and time. Your safety record is second to none, and you provide a level of security that is unmatched. I salute your professionalism as aviators and as managers of the art and science we know as business aviation.

As for NBAA’s Staff, it is strong and dedicated to serving your needs. The employees of NBAA work as an effective team, and it is their focus as a team that enables your Association to be effective. With Shelley’s leadership and with the Board’s overall governance, NBAA will continue to grow.

My involvement with NBAA and business aviation will continue. As a willing advisor and consultant to NBAA, I serve at the pleasure of president and staff. And as the Member Representative of a newly minted NBAA Associate Member, General Aero Company, located at Morristown Municipal Airport, I plan to volunteer as appropriate.

Thank you for the privilege of occupying the corner office of the best Association serving the finest individuals in aviation."

FMI: www.nbaa.org