SAN MARCOS AIRPORT
Local pilot Stephen R. Kern received the Federal Aviation Administration’s Wright Brothers Master Pilot Award in a ceremony on February 12. This prestigious recognition is given to pilots who have demonstrated 50 years of safe flying and symbolizes excellence in aviation.
The award honors the pioneering spirit of Orville and Wilbur Wright, who were the first to in- vent and fly a powered, heavier-than-air aircraft.
Kern, who earned his pilot’s license in Lafayette, Indiana upon returning from military service in Vietnam, went on to earn ratings in multi-engine and instrument flying and ultimately became a flight instructor. He currently has over 2,250 flight hours in 12 different types of planes.
Kern, a resident of San Marcos, has been flying since 1972. He has instructed a number of pilots, including his two sons, both of whom became licensed pilots. Kern’s flights across the U.S. included family vacations University Redbird sports teams, as well as travel in his former role as President of the American Academy of Actuaries.
FAA Representative Ryan Newman presented the award at the Experimental Aircraft Association’s Club meeting at New Braunfels National Airport. Mr. Kern joins approximately 9,500 pilots who have received the award since its inception in 2003. He continues to fly with his family and enjoys supporting the aviation community.
