absolute authority given to the "pilot in command" is derived from that of a ship's captain.

In recognition of the aviators' qualifications and responsibilities, most militaries and many airlines around the world award aviator badges to their pilots, as well as other air crews.

Great Aviators

Ace Pilots

Great Aviators

List of Aviators in GeneralWhile all of these people were pilots (and some still are), many are also noted for contributions in areas such as aircraft design and manufacturing, navigation or popularization.

Notable Russian AviatorsThis list of Russian aviators includes the noteworthy aviators of the Russian Empire, the Soviet Union and the Russian Federation. The majority of pilots listed here served in the Imperial Russian Air Force, the Soviet Air Force or the modern Russian Air Force (or continue to serve in the latter).

Theaircrew members listed below either committed notable feats in aviation, held senior positions in Russian military aviation, and/or won national or international awards for their aviation feats.

Celebrity Pilots

Notable people from various professions who are also Pilots:

A

David Ascalon, Contemporary sculptor and stained glass artist and co-founder of Ascalon Studios

B

Michael Bloomberg, mayor of New York City

Richard Branson, Chairman, Virgin Group

Jimmy Buffett, American singer, songwriter, author, businessman

Gisele Bündchen, Brazilian model

George H. W. Bush, 41st President of the United States

George W. Bush, eldest son of George H. W. Bush and 43rd President of the United States