“What goes up must come down.” But what about the organizations that help things go up in the first place? We are standing in front of the National Aeronautic Association. It is also known as the NAA.
The National Aeronautic Association is more than just an organization. It is the heart of American aviation. The NAA is located at the Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. It is in Washington, D.C.
Founded in 1905, the NAA is the oldest national aviation club in the United States. It is a founding member of the Fédération Aéronautique Internationale. That is the FAI. The NAA is dedicated to advancing aviation’s art, sport, and science in the United States.
For nearly the entire history of powered flight, NAA has been the caretaker of many prestigious aviation awards. The NAA identifies and recognizes those who have contributed to aviation and space flight in the United States.
The NAA aims to drive excellence with recognition. This includes contests, awards, and trophies. The NAA sanctions Americans who represent the best in International Air Sports. It promotes appreciation for flying and strengthens the aerospace business. The NAA encourages the study of aeronautics to encourage inventions and improvements. It assists in ensuring a sustainable aviation system.
The NAA also works with Air Sport Organizations. These are also called ASOs. These organizations introduce people to commercial and business aviation. They offer competitive disciplines and lifelong hobbies. The NAA works with ASOs to encourage membership and drive innovation.
Tens of thousands of people belong to ASOs in the United States. These represent aerobatics, aeromodelling, ballooning, gliding, and more. The NAA delegates each ASO as the official governing body for its air sports.
The NAA has three main responsibilities. It records and certifies aviation and aerospace records. It administers aviation trophies and awards. Also, it works with Air Sports Organizations.
The NAA has certified aviation and aerospace records in the United States since 1905. The records database counts over 8,000 record flights. These include balloons, airships, airplanes, gliders, and helicopters. The NAA certifies records for altitude, time-to-climb, distance, and speed.
As the U.S. representative to FAI, the National Aeronautic Association oversees all aviation records in the United States. The NAA certifies about 150 records each year.
The NAA acknowledges achievements in aviation and aerospace through its trophies and awards. These include the Robert J. Collier Trophy. It also includes the Wright Brothers Memorial Trophy.
The National Aeronautic Association encourages the development of aviation sports in the United States. It does this through its relationship with eight Air Sport Organizations. The NAA recognizes these ASOs as the official governing bodies for their sports.
The NAA also has a luncheon program. The NAA Luncheon Program brings together leaders in the aviation and aerospace industry. Speakers address important issues related to the Department of Defense, the military, and Aerospace Industry Affairs.
So, as we stand here, remember that the National Aeronautic Association is not just a building. It is a vital force propelling American aviation forward. It fosters dreams, recognizes achievements, and ensures that the sky is never the limit.