News
Lynn Tilton to be honoured as Living Legend of Aviation
January 18, 2011 By Carey Fredericks
Jan. 18, 2011, New York, N.Y. - Lynn Tilton, founder and CEO of private equity firm Patriarch Partners, LLC and industrialist will be honored as "Aviation Entrepreneur of the Year" at
the 8th Annual Living Legends of Aviation Awards ceremony on January
21st at the Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills, CA.
Ms. Tilton is being recognized for her leadership in the successful
turnaround of Patriarch portfolio company MD Helicopters (MDHI). In
addition to her role at Patriarch, Ms. Tilton also serves as Chairman
and CEO of MD Helicopters, the company founded by aviation pioneer
Howard Hughes.
"I am both humbled and honored by this valued recognition in an industry
that attracts so many talented leaders and great warriors. Once
tempted, it is difficult not to fall in love with aviation and to devote
oneself fully to the mission, at hand."
Often referred to as the "Academy Awards of Aviation," the aviation
Legends awards gala is produced by Kiddie Hawk Air Academy, a non-profit
organization that introduces children to aviation. The "Living Legends
of Aviation Awards" are considered the most prestigious and important
recognition event for great work, dedication and accomplishments in
aviation. The importance of leadership and commitment to aviation in
these challenging times make this recognition event even more significant.
Since acquiring the company in August of 2005, Ms. Tilton has led MD
Helicopters to profitability, delivering more than 50 helicopters in
2008 – although she inherited a shuttered production line and shattered
supply chain in 2005. Under Ms. Tilton's leadership, MD Helicopters has
been recognized as an industry leader in customer service and support of
its more than 3,000 aircraft currently in operation around the world.
Prior to Ms. Tilton's acquisition, MD Helicopters ranked last in customer service/support in the rotorcraft industry.
