Richard Travis Whitcomb graduated from high school in 1939. In 1943, shortly after receiving his bachelor of science degree in mechanical engineering, concentrating in aeronautics, he began his 37-year career with the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics (NACA). His career at NACA, which later became the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), took him to the Langley Research Center in Virginia, utilizing their high speed wind tunnels. It was here that Whitcomb developed three highly important aerodynamic design concepts concerning transonic, supersonic and high subsonic flight. The "area rule," the "supercritical wing," and "winglets" evolved from these concepts. The application of the "area rule" in airplane design greatly reduces drag at transonic and supersonic speeds. The "supercritical wing" design provides for increased speed, maneu- verability, and efficiency at high subsonic cruise speeds. "Winglets," the small near-vertical airfoils attached at an airplane's wing tips, provide an effective decrease in the vortex drag coefficient and result in significant fuel savings during long range cruise flight. Dr. Whitcomb is the recipient of many prestigious awards including the National Medal of Science, conferred upon him by then President Nixon in 1973 and the Collier trophy, received for his development of the "area rule." Among other awards he received are the Air Force Exceptional Service Medal, the NACA Distinguished Service Medal, and the NASA Scientific Achievement Medal. Dr. Richard Whitcomb retired from NASA in 1980 but his life long research and design efforts continue to contribute significantly to the advancement of aviation.
Inducted in 1998.
Portrait Location: Hall of Fame Hallway