Learning Center
Our Enshrinees
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Record Setter
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Enshrined: 1971
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Birth: May 11, 1906
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Death: August 9, 1980
Jacqueline Cochran
- Flew in the London, England to Melbourne, Australia race in 1934.
- In 1935, she became the first woman to fly in the Bendix Trophy Race, which she later won in 1938.
- Became the first woman to make a blind instrument landing in 1937.
- Set new women’s records during 1939-40, in altitude, and open class speed.
- Was the first woman to fly a bomber across the Atlantic Ocean, leading to the formation of the Women’s Air Force Service Pilots (WASP) program for which she received the Distinguished Service Medal.
- Received the Harmon Trophy in 1950 as the Aviatrix of the Decade.
- In 1953, she became the first woman to exceed the speed of sound and exceeded Mach 2 in 1964
- When she died in 1980, she held more speed, altitude and distance records than anyone in the world, male or female.
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Record Setter
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Enshrined: 1971
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Birth: May 11, 1906
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Death: August 9, 1980
You’re Invited 2023 Enshrinement
Join us for the “Oscar Night of Aviation” as we induct a new group of aviation leaders into the National Aviation Hall of Fame!
Friday, September 22, 2023
National Building Museum | Washington, DC
Sponsorships are now available!
Learn More