Photo © Terrence Adderley
May 13, 2025
NBAA recently bestowed its prestigious Silk Scarf Award on Russ Arena, a founding director of the Massachusetts Business Aviation Association (MBAA) and longtime business aircraft pilot, in recognition of his lifetime of passion and advocacy for the industry.
Arena, who currently serves as MBAA’s executive director, has retired from flying after a career spanning more than four decades. He most recently served as a contract pilot for Boston Scientific, following 33 years at Raytheon in positions including chief pilot and aircraft manager.
“Russ, you have always led by example,” NBAA President and CEO Ed Bolen said in a video message. “I’m proud that you are part of this elite fellowship of aviators, and I thank you for your indelible contributions to business aviation.”
After starting out as an instructor at Northeastern University and later serving as assistant chief flight instructor at Wiggins Airways, Arena moved to Laurence G. Hanscom Field (BED) and began work as a charter pilot. BED would be his home airport throughout his 43 years in business aviation.
In addition to leading MBAA, Arena continues to champion the industry through his work with organizations including the Massachusetts Port Authority and the Air Charter Safety Foundation, and as a consultant for De-Ice. He is also a founding board member of the FAA Aviation Safety Group of Massachusetts.
NBAA Northeast Regional Director Brittany Davies also lauded Arena for his work with the association and the business aviation community on matters ranging from combating obstacles to airport development and access, to guidance on maintaining safe flight operations amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.
“It’s been my sincere pleasure to work with Russ on these and other issues affecting business aviation operators in Massachusetts, across the Northeastern seaboard and throughout the country,” she said.
“Russ’s selfless mantra has always been, ‘help raise others,'” added Alex Gertsen, CAM, NBAA senior director for airport advocacy and vertical infrastructure. “Even though he’s retired from flying, his ground-based advocacy efforts continue, so that those of us taking to the air have access to airports and can fly safely and efficiently. Russ wholeheartedly embodies the essence of the Silk Scarf Award.”
Current and past colleagues also praised Arena’s dedication to the industry and his guidance in their lives and careers. “Russ is the grease that keeps the MBAA machine moving,” said current association President Dave Richter. “His relentless work ethic and attention to detail built this organization into one of the most respected local business aviation organizations in the US.”
Capt. Todd Deinstadt recounted his time working with Arena at Raytheon. “Russ and I flew around the world together. We did it safely, emphasized customer service and had a little fun. I am most grateful that we became friends.”
International Business Aviation Council Ltd.