Learning Center
Our Enshrinees
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Innovator & Entrepreneur
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Enshrined: 1979
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Birth: August 29, 1876
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Death: November 25, 1958
Charles Franklin Kettering
- Joined NCR in 1904 and perfected the first electric cash register.
- Invented and improved the ignition system and the first electric starter for automobiles, formed DELCO.
- Became interested in flying after flying in a Wright brothers biplane in 1912.
- Designed the ignition systems for the “Liberty” aircraft engine and made the first synthetic aviation fuel during World War I.
- Helped form the Dayton-Wright Airplane Company that produced the DeHavilland, DH-4 warplane and led its development of an unmanned guided missile.
- In 1923 his study of engine “knock” led to the development of tetraethyl lead in gasoline.
- Pioneered developing high compression engines and improved fuels that increased aircraft engine horsepower and flight safety.
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Innovator & Entrepreneur
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Enshrined: 1979
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Birth: August 29, 1876
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Death: November 25, 1958
Annual Membership Meeting
The National Aviation Hall of Fame is excited to announce its Annual Membership Meeting scheduled for November 30, 2023, from 4:00 PM to 5:30 PM. Members are invited to join this significant gathering, where key updates and future plans will be discussed. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with fellow aviation aficionados and learn more about the hall’s endeavors for the upcoming year.
