The International Air & Space Hall of Fame Class of 2024. (L to R): Robert Freeland (Bell), Shag Reynolds (Northrop Grumman), Stephen Altemus (Intuitive Machines), Katherine Moore (Katherine Johnson), Tory Bruno (ULA), John Cudahy (ICAS), David Mendelson and Alex Mendelson (Larry Mendelson, HEICO).

Since 1963, the International Air & Space Hall of Fame – the most prestigious of its kind in the world – has honored and celebrated the world's most prominent air and space pioneers and legends, including engineers, inventors and innovators, as well as adventurers, scientists and industry leaders.

The Hall’s Class of 2024 – which was inducted during a spectacular ceremony in the San Diego Air & Space Museum’s Edwin D. McKellar Pavilion of Flight on Saturday, November 9 – was a true representation of the pioneering spirit of the International Air & Space Hall of Fame.

Museum President & CEO Jim Kidrick served as the Gala's host.

This year’s class included: Bell, renowned for its relentless pursuit of advancing the boundaries of vertical lift technology; International Council of Air Shows, the global authority on air show standards; Stephen Altemus, Co-founder, President, and CEO of Intuitive Machines, dedicated to advancing both robotic and human exploration of the Moon, Mars, and beyond; Katherine Johnson, distinguished NASA “Hidden Figure” and orbital mechanics pioneer; Larry Mendelson, who built HEICO into a global powerhouse and aerospace giant; Salvatore T. “Tory” Bruno, President and CEO of United Launch Alliance, the nation’s most reliable and experienced space launch service provider; and the Northrop Grumman B-21 Raider program, the next generation of long-range strike bombers.

Robert Freeland accepted on behalf of Bell.

Bell is renowned for its relentless pursuit of advancing the boundaries of vertical lift technology. With a commitment to innovation, Bell delivers fast, reliable, and efficient solutions that empower customers to fly farther, faster, and arrive ahead of schedule. From life-saving medical and rescue missions to cutting-edge transportation and military operations, Bell’s leadership in the aviation industry is driven by a vision to break barriers and shape the future of aviation.

John Cudahy of ICAS.

Founded in 1967 by pioneering air show professionals, the International Council of Air Shows (ICAS) has grown into the global authority on air show safety, standards, and industry advocacy. ICAS plays a pivotal role in advancing best practices, addressing regulatory and safety concerns, and fostering collaboration with military and civilian stakeholders. Today, ICAS continues to lead the way in promoting and protecting the interests of the air show industry worldwide.

Inuitive Machines' Stephen Altemus.

Stephen Altemus, co-founder, president, and CEO of Intuitive Machines, leads a cutting-edge space company dedicated to advancing both robotic and human exploration of the Moon, Mars, and beyond. Under his leadership, Intuitive Machines is shaping the future of lunar development and space exploration, partnering with NASA to provide groundbreaking products and services. As a key player in humanity’s return to the Moon, Intuitive Machines is driving progress that will inspire future generations.

Katherine Moore accepted on behalf of her Mother, groundbreaking NASA mathematician Katherine Johnson.

Renowned NASA mathematician and celebrated “Hidden Figure” Katherine Johnson’s groundbreaking calculations in orbital mechanics were instrumental to the success of America’s early crewed space flights and the historic Apollo Moon landings. Often referred to as a “Human Computer” for her unmatched mathematical prowess, Johnson’s contributions, made with minimal technological resources and recognition at the time, laid the foundation for the United States’ advancements in space exploration.

David and Alex Mendelson accepted on behalf of their grandfather, Larry Mendelson of HEICO.

In 1990, Laurans “Larry” Mendelson, along with his sons Eric and Victor, transformed a small Florida-based public company, HEICO, into a global powerhouse in aerospace and electronics. Under their leadership, HEICO has become internationally renowned, offering hundreds of thousands of parts and employing approximately 10,000 team members across 15 countries and 21 U.S. states. Larry Mendelson’s vision and dedication have cemented his legacy as a legend in the aerospace industry.

United Launch Aliance President and CEO Salvatore T. "Tory" Bruno.

As president and CEO of United Launch Alliance (ULA), Salvatore T. “Tory” Bruno spearheads the nation’s most reliable and experienced launch service provider. ULA guarantees unmatched access to space while supporting local economies with a relentless focus on innovation and excellence. With over 150 consecutive launches since 2006, and combining the heritage of the Atlas and Delta rocket families, ULA is poised to continue its legacy with the introduction of the new Vulcan rocket family, securing its legendary status in space exploration.

Shag Reynolds of Northrop Grumman.

The B-21 Raider, developed by Northrop Grumman, represents the next generation of long-range strike bombers, designed to strengthen America’s defense capabilities for decades to come. As the world’s most advanced stealth bomber, the B-21 Raider incorporates cutting-edge technology to ensure survivability and effectiveness against modern threats. Engineered for both manned and unmanned operations, it is poised to become the cornerstone of the U.S. Air Force’s strategic bomber fleet, delivering unmatched range, precision, and endurance. The B-21 Raider underscores Northrop Grumman’s commitment to innovation and national security, advancing the future of global defense.

The Chairman of Museum's Board Mark Larson emceed the Gala. 

Proceeds from the prestigious International Air & Space Hall of Fame celebration benefit the Museum’s youth education programs.