NATA was saddened to hear of the passing of Michael “Mick” Pittard. Pittard owned Hoosier Air Sales, which was later known as Indianapolis Aviation; Kokomo Aviation; and the FBO at Lafayette Airport, which became Purdue Aviation. Pittard also founded the commuter airline Direct Air and the on-demand air charter operator Aviation Charter Services. After graduating from North Central High School in Indianapolis and serving two years in the Navy, Pittard earned a degree in accounting from Ball State University in 1967.
Pittard served as Chair of the NATA Air Charter Committee and as a member of the NATA Board of Directors before being elected to Board Chair (1996-1997). Pittard was also known for his work on the FAA Fractional Ownership Aviation Rulemaking Committee (ARC) and the Part 135/125 ARC, whose members recall his earnest efforts to improve pilot duty and rest regulations through a concept known as the “Pittard Wheel.” He was inducted into the Indiana Aviation Hall of Fame in 2022 as an industry entrepreneur and champion.
“Mick was a tireless advocate and leader for our industry. He always made himself available to answer questions or help NATA fight for small businesses. His expertise, love of aviation, and common-sense approach to handling issues made him a valued mentor,” said NATA Senior Advisor (Air Charter) Jacqueline Rosser.
“Mick lived and breathed aviation. Among his greatest achievements was nearly 4 decades of mentoring and employing aviation professionals across the charter, FBO, and maintenance sectors. Mick’s various aviation businesses provided economic growth and stability, as well as access to passenger and freight transportation services to the residents of Indiana. The imprint he left on his home state, the industry, and our association will live on. Our thoughts are with his loved ones and colleagues as they reflect on Mick’s vast achievements and reach in advancing his community and the field of business aviation,” stated NATA President and CEO Curt Castagna.
A celebration of life for Mick Pittard will be held on June 11th (11am-2pm) at Crown Hill Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Wheeler-Dowe Boys and Girls Club www.bgindy.org in tribute to Mick Pittard can be made.