1990 Art Scholl
Hall of Fame’90
David Gustafson, Sport Aerobatics, from 8 February, 1991
On December 1 IAC President Steve Morris presided over the induction ceremonies for the International Aerobatic Hall of Fame. Everything went smoothly and the setting (The Riviera Hotel in Las Vegas)
For 1990, the program was shifted from a stand-alone event at the EAA Aviation Museum to being part of the annual convention of the International Council of Airshows (ICAS). Since Lincoln Beachey, Bob Herndeen, Carlie Hillard and Art Scholl have all been active in the airshow industry, everyone present could relate to the people who were honored and the response was enthusiastic.
This year, for the first time, the inductee’s names were kept secret up to the last minute. Bob Herendeen and his wife were there, Charlie Hillard and his wife were present and Judy Scholl was at the banquet to present the annual Art Scholl Award. The element of surprise was undoubtedly a factor in the emotional response of Bob, Charlie and Judy. In Bob’s and Charlie’s cases, the wives were let in on the secret to assure attendance. We knew Judy Scholl would be there to present the annual Art Scholl Award.
Since some of the ICAS members didn’t even know there is an Aerobatic Hall of Fame, Steve explained that the Hall is housed in the EAA Aviation Museum…anyone can nominate someone who has made a significant contribution to the field of aerobatics.
Herendeen, Hillard and Scholl received standing ovations when their names were called and the applause was long, warm and enthusiastic.
PHOTO: the 1966 U.S. Aerobatic Team; Left to right; Bob Herendeen, Harold Krier, Art Scholl, Charlie Hillard and Bob Hoover.
Here’s what Steve said about each of the four men who were honored and added to the International Aereobatics Hall of Fame:
Art Scholl
Art Scholl (1931 – 1985) made a total commitment to aviation. He used the money won in a model airplane contest to buy part interest in an Aeronca Champ in which he earned his private license. After earning a degree in aeronautical engineering, he began teaching aeronautics and working toward his masters. He became active in air racing and air shows. In 1968, ‘70, and ’72, he was member of the US Aerobatic Team and competed in the World Aerobatic Championships. In 1974, Art became the US national Aerobatic Champion.
He was awarded a Ph.D. in aeronautics in 1976 and two years later, his airshow activity hit a peak when he flew 120 exhibitions. Art’s most distinguished work, however, was as a stunt pilot and actor for numerous feature films and TV specials. He began his career as a member of the Screen Actor’s Guild in 1959, working with Tallmantz Aviation. He was soon on his own and in high demand. While working on the movie, “Top Gun,” Art lost his life in aPitts Special filming an inverted spin.
