For more than 50 years, Bob Gallina’s love of flying has led him to help people get to their destinations and helped others learn how to fly. Now, Gallina, who is a currently a ground instructor at Northern Jet Management, has been honored for his lifetime of work by receiving the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) Wright Brothers Master Pilot Award, which is the most prestigious award given out by the group.
Gallina recently received his award at a reception at Northern Jet Management’s Kent County headquarters. The FAA and many of Gallina’s friends, family and current and past co-workers were on hand to celebrate. Recipients of the Wright Brothers Master Pilot Award must have 50 or more years of civil and military piloting experience and hold a U.S. Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) or Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) pilot certificate
Gallina started his aviation training in 1967 in Florida and over the years has held a variety of pilot and pilot training positions, earning the nickname "By the Book Bob." He came to the company now known as Northern Jet Management in 1997 as a pilot and has held many different roles and now serves as a ground instructor providing FAA-required basic indoctrination and recurrent ground training. During his career, Gallina has flown single-engine and multi-engine aircraft as both an instructor and charter pilot and has also been a check airman and chief pilot.
“Bob Gallina has been a key figure for us for many years and is extremely deserving of this honor,” said Chuck Cox, Northern Jet Management Founder and CEO. “He has touched countless lives as a teacher, a trainer, a mentor, a colleague and a friend and we couldn’t be prouder of him for all that he’s done.”
At the ceremony honoring Gallina, longtime supporters shared memories of and admiration for Gallina, with many adding that “you couldn’t find a more deserving person for this award.” FAA representatives on hand agreed and expressed that Gallina’s approval process was among the easiest they’ve seen.
“I have always been curious about all aspects of aviation and the FAA and it is such a great honor to be presented with this prestigious award,” said Gallina, Northern Jet Management. “I continue to have a thirst for knowledge and a driving passion for passing this knowledge down to the next generation, which is why I am deeply humbled to have my mentees and colleagues take the time to honor my life’s work and convey to me the impact I have made in their lives. For that I am extremely grateful to all. “
The Master Pilot Award is named after Orville and Wilbur Wright, who are credited with inventing, building and flying the world’s first successful motor-operated airplane on December 17, 1901 in Kitty Hawk, North Carolina.
For more than 25 years, Northern Jet Management has provided service to private travelers through offerings that include a jet fractional ownership program, aircraft management services and a private advantage card, which allows guests the ultimate in comfort, flexibility and convenience.
