NBAA will honor long-time former Bombardier leaders Laurent and Pierre Beaudoin with the association’s Meritorious Service to Aviation Award, recognizing their leadership in fostering industry growth, business aviation safety, and sustainability.
“Laurent and Pierre exemplify the pioneering spirit of this honor,” said NBAA president and CEO Ed Bolen. “Their trailblazing leadership drove the creation of entirely new market categories for business and commercial aircraft and helped set the standard for excellence in safety and sustainability. Their work continues to inspire current and future generations of business aviation professionals.”
Laurent Beaudoin joined Bombardier in 1963, became president three years later, and was ultimately named CEO in 1979. He took the company public and ventured into the aviation industry with the 1986 purchase of Canadair. Later tacking on a series of other manufacturers, including Learjet, Bombardier has since rolled out a series of business jets and regional aircraft.
Laurent’s son, Pierre Beaudoin, joined Bombardier in 1985 and became president of the company’s business aircraft unit in 2001 before stepping into the role of president and CEO of the overall company in 2008 and ultimately chairman.
NBAA credited them for leadership that led to the creation not only of new business jet market segments but also of the Bombardier Safety Standdown, which has brought key safety information to thousands of aviators. In addition, NBAA cited Bombardier’s leadership on sustainability, playing “a foundational role” in the 2009 Business Aviation Commitment on Climate Change.
One of its highest honors, NBAA established the Meritorious Service to Aviation Award to recognize individuals and organizations who have made significant contributions to aviation. Past recipients include Donald Douglas, Gene Cernan, Clay Lacy, the Tuskegee Airmen, and Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASPs).
This year’s award will be presented on October 22 during the opening keynote session of the 2024 NBAA-BACE at the Las Vegas Convention Center.