Lew A. Nelson
Encyclopedia
Lewis A. Nelson is a former Northrop
chief test pilot who took the T-38 on its maiden flight. He tested the F-89, N-156, the F-5 and the T-38, exceeding Mach 1 in each and also made the first flight of the YA-9A in 1972. A recipient of two Distinguished Flying Crosses
, the IAS Student Awards and four Air Medal
s, Nelson is a founding member and Fellow of the Society of Experimental Test Pilots
. Throughout his career, Nelson logged over 5,000 hours on a variety of aircraft.
Northrop Corporation
Northrop Corporation was a leading United States aircraft manufacturer from its formation in 1939 until its merger with Grumman to form Northrop Grumman in 1994. The company is known for its development of the flying wing design, although only a few of these have entered service.-History:Jack...
chief test pilot who took the T-38 on its maiden flight. He tested the F-89, N-156, the F-5 and the T-38, exceeding Mach 1 in each and also made the first flight of the YA-9A in 1972. A recipient of two Distinguished Flying Crosses
Distinguished Flying Cross (United States)
The Distinguished Flying Cross is a medal awarded to any officer or enlisted member of the United States armed forces who distinguishes himself or herself in support of operations by "heroism or extraordinary achievement while participating in an aerial flight, subsequent to November 11, 1918." The...
, the IAS Student Awards and four Air Medal
Air Medal
The Air Medal is a military decoration of the United States. The award was created in 1942, and is awarded for meritorious achievement while participating in aerial flight.-Criteria:...
s, Nelson is a founding member and Fellow of the Society of Experimental Test Pilots
Society of Experimental Test Pilots
The Society of Experimental Test Pilots is an international organization that seeks to promote air safety and contributes to aeronautical advancement by promoting sound aeronautical design and development; interchanging ideas, thoughts and suggestions of the members, assisting in the professional...
. Throughout his career, Nelson logged over 5,000 hours on a variety of aircraft.
External links
- City of Landcaster - Aerospace Walk of Honor 2007, Lew A. Nelson
- Photo Release -- Northrop Grumman Marks 50th Anniversary of T-38 Talon First Flight