May 12, 2023
National Championship Air Races to host a special
"REMEMBERING RENO" Display this year!

News Release

National Aviation Heritage Invitational Announces 2022 Awards to Restored Aircraft,
Recipient of the Neil A. Armstrong Aviation Heritage Trophy

Students and ROTC young men and women visit the NAHI Ramp.
Fostering the future in aviation and aerospace. Bringing history and encouragement to the newer generations is the mission. Honoring scholarship recipients, providing education and resources to soar high. The possibilities are endless. NAHI is proud and grateful to our sponsors, colleagues, participants, and staff for being a beacon for these young people.

Thank you for your dedication for preserving aviation history and fostering the future.

Gee, who is going to be awarded this prestigious trophy?
Come out and see ALL the aircraft throughout next week at NAHI---east end of the grandstands at the STIHL National Championship Air Races!
This trophy was named after our beloved Neil Armstrong 10 years ago. He passed out of the bounds of earth in August 2012.
Stay tuned for an update on the aircraft display next week. Some changes--although they are all beautiful! They all look too nice to fly, but they are all flyable. That's what makes them so special.

Returning Previous Winners to be on the Ramp this Year at NAHI

Up to date list of Aircraft NAHI will have on the Reno Ramp in 2022.
A wide array of beautiful testaments to Aviation History!

Ellsworth Hovey Getchell Foundation Sponsors the Henry ‘Hap' Arnold Trophy at the National Aviation Heritage Invitational
For Immediate Release-Reno, Nev. We are excited to announce and welcome the Ellsworth Hovey Getchell Foundation (EHGF) as sponsor for the coveted Henry ‘Hap' Arnold Trophy for Military aircraft in 2022.
The National Aviation Heritage Invitational is the prestigious competition for restored aircraft at the Stihl National Championship Air Races, Sept 14-18, 2022.
The Ellsworth Hovey Getchell Foundation (EHGF) is a recognized 501(c)3 entity.
Founded in 2020, the foundation has awarded more than tens of thousands of dollars in scholarships to students aspiring for a career in aviation.
Getchell (Getch), who passed away in 2020 at age 85 wanted to give back to the aviation community he so dearly loved. His resources are supporting the future aviators, mechanics, and students of aviation history.
"This year we're sponsoring five major flight scholarships through the Auburn Aviation Association," said Ben Marsh, EHGF board member.
In addition, the foundation contributes to the Reno Air Racing Association scholarship program and has awarded grants to students working on their airframe and powerplant mechanic's license at Sacramento City College. "The Getchell Foundation is pleased to sponsor maintenance grants as well as flight scholarships. We want to do more of this," Ben Marsh said. He continued, "NAHI is the right kind of group for the Foundation to promote through. We appreciate the venue, the people and the spirit of historic aviation it supports."

For Immediate Release: Reno, Nevada -he National Aviation Heritage Invitational (NAHI) is thrilled to welcome once again, Wings of Hope as the sponsor of the Steven-F. Udvar Hazy trophy for Contemporary aircraft at the prestigious competition for restored aircraft at the Stihl National Championship Air Races, Sept 14-18, 2022.
Wings of Hope, based in Chesterfield, MO is a global humanitarian network that spans ten countries, including the United States. Nearing their 60th year, Wings of Hope has a rich history and makes an impact throughout the world, saving and changing people's lives through the power of aviation.
The history behind Wings of Hope began in a desert region of Kenya 1959 called Turkana. The region was devasted by a terrible drought and then flooding in 1959. The government provided some support, but then two years later the Nairobi officials allowed missionaries access to the region for additional assistance and provision.
Through the efforts of a Catholic Bishop and resolute men a funding program established the Marian Medical Airplane Fund to raise the $11,000 needed to buy a new Piper Super Cub 18A that would provide rescue and supply efforts for the needs of the people.
Our own, Neil Armstrong, who passed in 2012 praised the service of Wings of Hope.
"I certainly want to send my congratulations on your efforts on behalf of Wings of Hope. I am certain that this valuable project is achieving brotherhood between nations in a way that cannot be accomplished by diplomacy or government aid programs. As an aviator, I sincerely salute this fine service as being one of the best achievements of the combination of general aircraft and dedicated individuals of good will." - Neil Armstrong

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Notable National Aviation Hall of Fame Enshrinees Join the National Aviation Heritage Invitational
(RENO, Nevada -June 22, 2022) The National Aviation Heritage Invitational (NAHI) is honored to host a stellar group of National Aviation Hall of Fame (NAHF) enshrinees to help highlight the beautifully restored vintage aircraft vying for honors under the desert skies of Reno, Nevada at the National Championship Air Races, September 14-19, 2022.
NAHI officials are delighted to add two NAHF enshrinees, retired Army Major General Patrick Brady, a Medal of Honor recipient, and former NASA astronaut and retired Air Force Brigadier General Charlie Duke to the lineup of five enshrinees already slated to help present NAHI winners their trophies this year.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Notable National Aviation Hall of Fame Enshrinees Join the National Aviation Heritage Invitational
(RENO, Nevada -June 22, 2022) The National Aviation Heritage Invitational (NAHI) is honored to host a stellar group of National Aviation Hall of Fame (NAHF) enshrinees to help highlight the beautifully restored vintage aircraft vying for honors under the desert skies of Reno, Nevada at the National Championship Air Races, September 14-19, 2022.
NAHI officials are delighted to add two NAHF enshrinees, retired Army Major General Patrick Brady, a Medal of Honor recipient, and former NASA astronaut and retired Air Force Brigadier General Charlie Duke to the lineup of five enshrinees already slated to help present NAHI winners their trophies this year.

We are expecting the best year yet!

National Aviation Heritage Invitational Celebrates 21st Year
of Showcasing Rare, Restored Aircraft at the Reno Air Races.

Celebrating a friend and supporter of the National Aviation Heritage Invitational.

NAHI will officially begin accepting participant applications for their 2022 Vintage Aircraft Competition on January 1, 2022. The 2022 competition will be held at the Reno Air Races from September 14 to 18, 2022. Please see the ENTER AIRCRAFT Page for more details.

Announcing winners at the National Aviation Heritage Invitational.

The aircraft is on the ramp at Reno! Stay tuned for photos!

Here's just a sampling of some of the skillfully restored aircraft scheduled to be on the ramp this year!
Gorgeous 1942 SNJ-4

We are delighted to welcome a new sponsor to the National Aviation Heritage Invitational. Wings of Hope is the sponsor
of the Steven F. Udvar Hazy trophy for commercial aircraft. More news to come! Welcome aboard to Wings of Hope!

Please join us in welcoming some of our beautifully restored
aircraft to the 2021 National Aviation Heritage Invitational.
Here is a partial list of who will be on the ramp!

Heartfelt thanks to our sponsors!

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
World Renown Aerobatic Pilot, Sean D. Tucker to assist in presentation of Trophies at the 2021 National Aviation Heritage Invitational
RENO-NEV " The National Aviation Heritage Invitation is honored to announce Sean D. Tucker as a trophy presenter this September. Held each year during the STIHL National Championship Air Races, the vintage aircraft competition will return September 15-19, 2021.
"We are delighted to have National Aviation Hall of Fame Enshrinee, Sean D. Tucker join us this year at the National Aviation Heritage Invitational," said Fred Telling, CEO and Chairman of the Reno Air Racing Association. "Sean has thrilled millions of fans with his awe-inspiring aerobatics for decades and has been an inspiration to many throughout his career."
Sean D. Tucker will join fellow NAHF Enshrinees, including World War II triple ace, Clarence ‘Bud' Anderson, decorated United States Air Force pilot and world record setting aviator, Dick Rutan and aviation pioneer Clay Lacy in presenting trophies to the category winners and the Grand Champion of this prestigious event. The Grand Champion aircraft is awarded the Neil A. Armstrong Aviation Heritage Trophy which resides in the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum's Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center located at Washington Dulles Airport in Virginia.
Tucker was enshrined into the National Aviation Hall of Fame in 2008. He is also the recipient of the Crystal Eagle Award, was an inductee at the 2001 USAF Gathering of Eagles, and in 2003 was named one of the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum's 25 Living Legends of Flight.
Tucker has been a mentor and an inspiration to those who seek to perfect their aerobatic skill. In addition, he has fostered and facilitated aviation education for students in the Central California area. He is an honorary member of the US Navy Blue Angels, the US Force Thunderbirds, The US Army Parachute Team, the Canadian Snowbirds and the Brazilian Smoke Squadron.
"Visitors to the NAHI display will be going back in time to see some of the most beautifully restored vintage aircraft in the world," said Ken Perich, Chairman of NAHI. "It is a virtual walk-through history from the golden age of aviation to military aircraft of yesteryear."

National Aviation Heritage Invitational will begin accepting applications on January 25th, for our 2021 competition to be held during the STIHL National Championship Air Races.

Happy New Year! The National Aviation Heritage Invitational now accepting applications for the 2020 event to the Stihl National Championship Air Races, September 16-20, 2020. We are ringing in the new decade inviting owners and restorers to submit applications for this prestigious event.
Each competing aircraft is judged against restoration standards established by the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum which includes authenticity, quality of workmanship, attention to detail and technical merit.
Please visit our application tab to get started.

Check out this wonderful set of videos by LiveAirShowTV..Such a great group of beautiful aircraft in 2019!

It's time to vote for Aircraft of the Year!! People's Choice at the National Aviation Heritage Invitational.
We have 22 aircraft on display at the Stihl National Championship Air Races, September 11-15 in Reno.
If you can't make it go to www.airspacemag.com/vote
Lost of brilliant aircraft to see!

Friday, September 13 and Saturday September 14
Special print signing by National Aviation Hall of Fame Enshrinees

NAHI Executive Director, Ken Perich prepares the six-foot
Neil A. Armstrong Aviation Heritage Trophy to ship to Reno. This striking trophy sits at the Steven F.Udvar Hazy Center Smithsonian throughout the year when it is not on display at the National Aviation Heritage Invitational at the Stihl National Championship Air Races. Come see us September 11-15.

Stay tuned for details on the new for 2019 online and digital voting for the National Aviation Hall of Fame's People's Choice award, given to the aircraft on display with the most votes by the general public. And....it's global. You can vote from anywhere in the world!
Details to come!

We are less than one month away for the National Aviation Heritage Invitational.
To date: 24 aircraft will be on display. *
Look for a list soon.
Stay tuned for information on the new digital People's Choice ballots through Air and Space Smithsonian Magazine

Check out the wonderful article on the National Aviation Heritage Invitational from Air and Space Magazine!
New this year! Voting online for your favorite aircraft! The one with the most votes will receive the National Aviation Hall of Fame's 'People's Choice trophy.
Voting will begin September 3, 2019 when we a full list of aircraft.
So if you can't make it to Reno you can participate from anywhere in the world!

Check out our recent blog post for the Reno Air Racing website!
More blogs and news to come!
NAHI Restoration and Judging

National Aviation Heritage Invitational Returns to Reno
Applications now open for 2019 event

We are now accepting application for the National Aviation Heritage Invitational. Please follow the application entry links. Stay tuned for more exciting details and news!

We mourn the loss of Herbert David Kelleher.

The Dates for NAHI 2019, which will be held during the Reno Air Races at Stead Field outside of Reno, Nevada are September 11th to September 15th. The Awards Ceremony will be on Sunday, September 15th.

Come see the beautifully restored aircraft this week at the National Aviation Heritage Invitational
Stihl National Championship Air Races!

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
AUGUST 9, 2018
THE NATIONAL AVIATION HERTIAGE INVITATIONAL LLC RELEASES THE AIRCRAFT LINEUP
For 55TH Annual STIHL National Championship Air Races, Sept. 12-16
RENO, Nev. – The Reno Air Racing Association (RARA) and the National Aviation Heritage Invitational LLC (NAHI) are thrilled to present some of the nation's most skillfully-restored aircraft that will be on display at the 55th annual STIHL National Championship Air Races, scheduled September 12-16 at Reno-Stead Airport.
This year marks the 55th year of air racing in Reno and is also the year of celebrating NAHI's return to the STIHL National Championship Air Races. Visitors will be able to walk among this historical aircraft exhibit and talk with the owners and restorers at the very place it all began in 1999.
A full competition is to scheduled begin in 2019 and is planned for years to come. NAHI was an integral part of the Reno experience for 16 years and has hosted some of the finest examples of restored aircraft on the ramp at the STIHL National Championship Air Races. Owners and restorers from all over bring their aircraft to compete for trophies in several categories including military, large, vintage, classic, commercial aircraft and the People's Choice Award sponsored by the Air and Space Smithsonian Magazine. Entrants vie to for coveted Neil A. Armstrong Aviation Heritage Trophy, a striking six-foot tall trophy that resides at the National Air and Space Museum Steven F. Udvar Hazy Center near Dulles Airport in Virginia.
The judging criteria was created by representatives of the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, and emphasizes authenticity and attention to detail. The Smithsonian is actively involved with NAHI and has representatives from the restoration staff that serve on the judging team annually.
"Having NAHI back at Reno is absolutely fantastic!" said Josh Cawthra a previous winner and regular participant at NAHI. "NAHI is the west coast mecca for aviation enthusiasts from all over the world and providing the opportunity for these enthusiasts to enjoy these iconic aircraft that so many have put such hard work into persevering is just amazing!"
"I am glad NAHI and Reno have reestablished their partnership," said John Sessions, owner of Historic Flight Foundation and a previous winner and participant. "NAHI deserves the concentration of aviation enthusiasts that Reno attracts every September."
Scheduled NAHI participants include:
• 1947 Cessna 140, owned by Josh, Janel and Dave Cawthra of Vacaville, CA - 2014 Classic Winner
• 1942 Interstate S-1A Cadet, owned by Jeff and Kim Powschwatta of Covington, WA - 2013 Antique Winner
• 1942 Fairchild PT-19, owned by Larry Nelson of Napa, CA - 2017 Military Winner of California Capital Airshow (CCA)
• 1944 Beechcraft D17S, owned by Heritage Flight Foundation of Mukilteo, WA. - 2017 Classic CCA Winner
• 1942 Waco UPF-7, owned by Jeremy Young of Hood River, OR
• 1942 Howard DGA-15D, owned by David Bole of Enumclaw, WA
• 1951 Cessna L-19, Cactus Air Force Wings and Wheels Museum in Carson City, NV
• 1971 Bell Cobra Helicopter, Cactus Air Force Wings and Wheels Museum in Carson City, NV
• 1967 Cessna O-2, Cactus Air Force Wings and Wheels Museum in Carson City, NV
• 1938 Ryan SCW-145, owned by Russell Williams of Bellevue of Spelling, WA
T34 C1 owned by Gregory Scileppi of Denver, CO

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 11, 2018

September 10, 2017
National Aviation Heritage Invitational Announces 2017 Awards to Restored Aircraft
Recipient of the Neil A. Armstrong Aviation Heritage Trophy

The National Aviation Heritage Invitational has held annual competitions since 1999 and has been privileged to have on display some of the finest restored vintage aircraft in the country. In addition, we have been honored to have hosted many enshrinees of the National Aviation Hall of Fame who have presented trophies to the winners each year. NAHI has a wealth of great photos, stories and information we would like to share with the aviation community. Our new web site, created by Joe Jones and his design team, will become the repository for information on vintage aircraft and a great way to visually walk through the time line of our rich aviation history.

The National Aviation Heritage Invitational (NAHI) is very proud to have the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum as one of its Founding Sponsors. The Smithsonian not only helped establish the aircraft judging criteria but they provide a representative from their restoration team to serve as a judge each year. The Smithsonian is a very active suprporter of NAHI and has the Neil A. Armstrong Aviation Heritage Trophy on permanent display at the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center. Flanking the trophy is a monitor featuring a video on NAHI and a new six foot tall banner highlighting examples of former winning aircraft and the namesake of the trophy.... Neil A. Armstrong, the first man to set foot on the moon and an ardent student of aviation history.

The National Aviation Heritage Invitational has expanded its scope to not only honor our aviation past but to also help inspire its future. To recognize the new scope and vision of NAHI, we have both updated our logo and rebranded NAHI to reflect our broader and longer range goals for the organization. NAHI supports the youth education video program "Careers in Aviation" created and sponsored by the International Society of Transport Aircraft Training (ISTAT) Foundation. This video series features young adults working in various fields within the aviation industry.

The National Aviation Heritage Invitational (NAHI) is proud to be able to name the Best Large Aircraft trophy in honor of Herb Keller, airline industry icon, founder and former CEO of Southwest Airlines. Kelleher, an industry pioneer of the low fare airline model, took Southwest Airlines during his tenure from just three airplanes in 1971 to a fleet of more than 527 airlines in 2008 when Kelleher stepped down. Kelleher stated, "I am incredibly delighted and honored to accept your proposal as to the naming of the large aircraft trophy and suffused with gratitude to you for the idea." As an enshrinee into the National Aviation Hall of Fame, Mr. Kelleher has been a regular presenter at the event.

The National Aviation Heritage Invitational (NAHI) is proud to be able to create the Best Contemporary trophy in honor of Steven F. Udvar-Hazy who revolutionized commercial aircraft financing, was the founder of ILFC, and the driving force behind the Steven F. Udvar Hazy annex of the Air and Space Museum at Washington Dulles Airport.

National Aviation Hall of Fame Enshrinees joined presenting sponsor Perform Air in awarding the Grand Champion Neil A. Armstrong National Aviation Heritage Invitational Trophy to the 1944 OY-1 Consolidated Vultee Stinson. This splendid aircraft is owned by Duncan Cameron of Lebanon, TN. Restoration by Duncan Cameron and Tom Westfall.