The Minnesota Aviation Hall of Fame was held April 11 at the Mystic Lake Center, Minnetonka Ballroom in Prior Lake, Minnesota. This year’s honorees include accomplished pilots, aviation advocates, and visionary leaders whose dedication and achievements have left an indelible mark on the field of aviation.
The Class of 2026 are as follows:
Eugene “Gene” DePalma: A Navy veteran and aviation exe
cutive with over 10,000 flight hours in 33 aircraft types. After a distinguished 30-year career at Van Dusen Air, where he rose to President and CEO, he continued to serve the aviation community through leadership roles in several organizations.
Robert J. Pond: A decorated naval aviator and entrepreneur, who amassed a notable collection of vintage aircraft and automobiles. He founded the “Planes of Fame Museum” at Flying Cloud Airport and later the “Palm Springs Air Museum,” where he educated the public about aviation history.
John R. Sandberg: A skilled mechanic and aviation enthusiast who transitioned from drag racing to rebuilding and flying warbirds, contributing to the Commemorative Air Force and the national air racing community. He co-developed the racing aircraft “Tsunami,” which competed at Reno and was part of the fastest unlimited race in history.
Cora May Fuller: Minnesota’s first licensed female pilot in 1931 after soloing in a Stinson SM-8A and earning a perfect score on her written exam. She logged over 8,000 miles in her first year and was a pioneer in aviation at a time when few women flew.
Conrad “Butch” Maxwell: A veteran of the Air Force Reserve, and a certified FAA mechanic with over 66 years of experience, he operates the family business, Maxwell Aircraft Service, earning national recognition for his expertise in propeller overhaul. He is a recipient of the “FAA Charles Taylor Master Mechanic Award” for more than 50 years of safe aviation maintenance.
James A. Olsen: Founder of Sun Country Airlines. He turned a vision for affordable leisure travel into one of Minnesota’s most successful aviation ventures. Under his leadership, the airline grew from a startup into a nationally recognized carrier serving millions of passengers. The airline has made a large impact on Minnesota’s aviation industry and economy.
Charles “Chuck” Doyle Jr.: A lifelong aviator whose career spans airline service, vintage aircraft restoration, and passionate mentorship within Minnesota’s aviation community. He is renowned for flying and maintaining antique airplanes, and inspiring countless young pilots.
Watch for more information about the class of 2026 on the Minnesota Aviation Hall of Fame website www.MAHOF.org, Instagram, and on Facebook.