Max Conrad was the first man to fly a single engine light plane solo across the Atlantic Ocean after Charles Lindbergh. By the end of his flying career of over half a century, he had logged more than 50,000 hours, crossed the Atlantic and Pacific oceans in light aircraft over 200 times and set numerous light plane endurance and distance records.
Max Conrad’s exploits were recognized and honored by aeronautical organizations in the USA and abroad and included two United States presidents.
Max Conrad nearly succeeded in his attempt to circumnavigate the globe via the poles in his Piper Aztec “The White Penguin”. He crashlanded in icefog at the South Pole.
Max Conrad
1903-1979
“Your numerous long-range
flight records in small aircraft
are a tribute to your courage
and professional ability. You
have helped much to prepare
young people for the complex
and serious responsibilities
of the aerospace age.
In addition, your work and
example have brought goodwill
to many parts of the world.”
President John F. Kennedy
August 1961