We exist to lift up and learn from industry titans, professionals, retirees, students, and enthusiasts. We invite you to join us!
Visit the Air Force Flight Test Center
Edwards Air Force Base
June 11, 2025
Limited to 35 registrations
Sign up today!
Hosted by Col Robert C Ettinger, USAF (retired)
The tour will be hosted by Col Robert C Ettinger, USAF (retired). Bob served in the United States Air Force as a combat pilot and test pilot for 28 years. He was stationed at Edwards Air Force Base and was a F-16 and F-18 prototypes test pilot in the early 1970s. He ended his Air Force career as Edwards Flight Test Center Vice Commander. After retiring from the Air Force, Bob was Northrop’s chief test pilot on the unmanned Global Hawk program at Edwards.
Registration deadline Friday, May 30, 2025.
All attendees MUST be U.S. Citizens.
Howard Hughes Memorial Awards Banquet
Eren Ozmen, Chairwoman and Owner of Sierra Nevada Corporation, has been selected as the 45th annual Howard Hughes Memorial Award winner!
Honoring legends and driving advancements
The Aero Club of Southern California is a nonprofit organization with a rich history dating back to 1910. We’re proud to stand on the shoulders of giants, and to lift others up as well.
We offer generous scholarships to high school and college students interested in pursuing a career in aerospace or aviation.
Every year we present the Howard Hughes Memorial Award at our annual gala, honoring exceptional leaders who have advanced the fields of aviation or aerospace technology.
Our membership is open to anyone with an interest in space and aviation—from research and technology to piloting, education, manufacturing, commercial and military aviation, or simply enthusiasm!
The Aero Club of Southern California is deeply saddened by the passing of 2021 Howard Hughes Memorial Award winner Lieutenant Colonel Richard ‘Dick’ Rutan, USAF (Retired).
In addition to being an aviation hero, Dick Rutan was a great friend to the Aero Club of Southern California. He attended ACSC events to members’ delight and saved the 2018 HHMA ceremony when the Howard Hughes Memorial Award recipient canceled 24 hours before the ceremony. Dick graciously accepted the award on behalf of the recipient. He warmly greeted and took photos with 250 attendees assuring an entertaining and memorable evening.
Dick received the 2021 Howard Hughes Memorial Award for his historic Voyager flight and aviation contributions. His award ceremony was held virtually and included an insightful interview conducted by aviation historian/artist Mike Machat.
Our friend Dick Rutan will always be a cherished Aero Club of Southern California family member. We extend our deepest sympathy, thoughts and prayers to his family and friends.
Dick’s award ceremony and program are available here.
Who are we?
Students & Future Aviators
Students & Future Aviators
Current & Former Aerospace & Aviation Professionals
Current & Former Aerospace & Aviation Professionals
Former Military Aviators
Former Military Aviators
Aerospace & Aviation Enthusiasts
Aerospace & Aviation Enthusiasts
Perks of Membership
Community
People who genuinely appreciate aerospace and aviation—we are your people. You'll get to meet fellow enthusiasts, network with other professionals, and maybe even meet some celebrities!
Education
We sponsor regular events featuring some of the top movers and shakers in the aerospace and aviation industries. You'll have fun AND you'll get to rub shoulders with these industry influencers.
Experiences
In addition to our annual Howard Hughes Memorial Award Gala and our Scholarship Awards Banquet, we tour fascinating industry locales, including NASA's Dryden Flight Research Center.
Howard Hughes Memorial Award Gala
The Aero Club of Southern California is proud to present two prestigious awards at the 2023 Howard Hughes Memorial Award Gala on Wednesday, September 6, 2023.
2023 Howard Hughes Memorial Award Recipient: Larry Mendelson, Chairman & CEO of HEICO
Howard Hughes Memorial Discovery Award Recipient: The James Webb Space Telescope Team
Tickets are Selling Fast!
Howard Hughes Memorial Award
Every year, the Aero Club of Southern California honors exceptional leaders who have advanced the fields of aviation or aerospace technology.
2023 Howard Hughes Memorial Award Recipient: Larry Mendelson, Chairman & CEO of HEICO
2023 Howard Hughes Memorial Discovery Award Recipient: The James Webb Space Telescope Team
Aero Club Scholarships
Are you a high school or college/technical student who is passionate about a career in aerospace or aviation studies? If so, we’d love to help support and encourage you on your way!
Aero Club is always looking for new partners who share our passion for aviation and aerospace. Partners receive exclusive access to Aero Club’s network of aviation and aerospace innovations and individuals.
Aero Club is proud and grateful to be partners with the following organizations:
Lifetime Corporate Sponsors
Platinum Sponsors
Henry and Paulette Matson
Gold Sponsors
Silver Sponsors
Corporate Member
Loar Group