NATA Mourns Passing of Arnold Palmer Golfing Great and Aviation Enthusiast

Washington, DC, September 26, 2016 – Last night, golfing great Arnold Palmer passed away at the age of 87. Widely known for his 90 tournament victories including four Masters, two British Opens and the U.S. Open, Mr. Palmer was also an aviation enthusiast holding multiple ratings and owning numerous general aviation aircraft. Palmer was a prominent voice in promoting the utility of general aviation noting, “To put it quite simply, I could never have accomplished even half as much as I have in my golf and business careers over the last four decades without having my own airplanes.”

“The aviation community has lost a friend and great ambassador,” stated NATA President Martin Hiller. “Mr. Palmer loved every aspect of flying, including all the people in the aviation business community critical to ensuring every flight begins with a safe airplane.”

Former NATA Board Member and friend of Mr. Palmer, Ed Kilkeary, Sr. (L.J. Aviation, Latrobe, PA) concurred adding, “I had the opportunity to fly Mr. Palmer last week and there was no doubt where he would be sitting, up front helping me pilot the aircraft. There was not a nicer, more inclusive person in the world than Arnold Palmer. Although he had accomplished so much, he was always himself. He didn’t even realize he’s Arnold Palmer.”