Isaac Maclin Laddon recieved his education at McGill University, Montreal and graduated in 1915. His half-century career in the aviation industry began in 1917 when he joined the United States Air Service Experimental and Engineering Test Center at McCook Field, Ohio. In the urgency of preparing the emerging U.S. air power for war, he learned his aviation trade quickly and well. In just 2 years he became chief of design for all large aircraft development. Blessed with great inventiveness and the ability to apply his engineering knowledge to practical problem solving, "Mac" Laddon became patent holder on a great variety of aircraft systems and on aerodynamic and structural innovations. He joined the Consolidated Aircraft Company in 1927 as chief engineer and was assigned the task of placing the company solidly in the large bomber aircraft and flying boat field, a task he performed with eminent success. Among his designs were the Admiral Flying Boat of 1928, first in the series of famed Consolidated seaplanes, and the world renowned PBY Catalinas. His B-24 Liberator was among the most produced U.S. aircraft during World War II, playing a dominant role in air operations. Then came his B-36 Peacemaker. Finally, Laddon was responsible for the sleek Convair liners that were known in commerce throughout the world. In all this, "Mac" Laddon was there, personally, for he felt the ultimate designer's responsibility; flying in his own designs on many first flights.
Inducted in 1975.
Portrait Location: Modern Jet