ORLANDO, FL – The National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) presented its journalism awards this morning during its Media Kickoff Breakfast on the opening day of the NBAA 59th Annual Meeting & Convention.
Aviation International News contributing editor and writer Mary F. Silitch received the 2006 NBAA Platinum Wing Award, which recognizes excellence and lifetime achievement in journalism. Silitch’s career includes positions as editor in chief at Professional Pilot, editor in chief at Private Pilot and director of public relations/editor at the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association. She holds a private pilot license with multi-engine, instrument and sea ratings. She has flown more than 250 types of aircraft and has logged more than 4,700 flight hours, mostly under IFR conditions.
For his story titled “The Battle Over User Fees,” David Esler received the 2006 NBAA Gold Wing Award, which is presented annually for excellent, accurate and insightful reporting of issues related to the business aviation industry. Esler has combined his passions in writing, photography and flying into a 40-year career in aviation journalism. In addition to pursuits in freelance writing and commercial photography, he has been a contributing editor for Business & Commercial Aviation since 1993. A former officer in the U.S. Army, he holds a commercial pilot certificate with instrument and multi-engine ratings.
International Business Aviation Council Ltd.