Famed aviator and test pilot passes away at 92
August 11, 2011, 05:16 pm
Last month, the famed aviator Arthur "Kit" Murray passed away at the age of 92. In 1954, Murray became the first pilot to fly above 90,000 feet, and was able to see the earth's curvature from his Bell X-1A. Murray's altitude-defying feat led to him becoming known as America's first space pilot.
Murray first became an aviator during World War II, after volunteering for pilot training following the December 7, 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor. He flew several combat missions in Africa, and then returned to the United States as a flight instructor.
Murray was a test pilot for some of the earliest jet aircraft, including the Bell X-1A and X1-B. He retired in 1960, after having earned numerous awards, including the Distinguished Flying Cross and Air Medal with eight oak leaf clusters. He continued to fly even during his retirement.
Mike McMains, a member of the Experimental Aircraft Association, told the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) that he was honored to lead a missing man flying formation over Murray's memorial service. "He is certainly past due for recognition of his aviation accomplishments," McMains told the AOPA in an email.
Flying can be dangerous, and not all aviators have the luxury of living to the age of 92. Life insurance for pilots is necessary for those who wish to protect their families in the event of an accident.
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