Meet Former Fighter Pilot David Valaer Turned Aerospace Executive
About this Event
Airhart Festival Tent - Booth 439 -- Location Map Below
A Conversation with David Valaer
What does it take to fly high-performance fighter jets, lead an aerospace technology company, and restore one of the rarest aircraft in aviation history?
Join David Valaer for an unforgettable, up-close conversation at the Airhart Festival Tent during EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2026.
David's remarkable aviation journey has taken him from the cockpit of the LTV A-7 Corsair II and General Dynamics F-16 Fighting Falcon with the Iowa Air National Guard to becoming CEO of Green Taxi, a company pioneering electric taxi technology that enables airliners to taxi using electric motors installed in their landing gear, reducing fuel burn and emissions. (AOPA)
Today, David is also the owner and restorer of one of the world's rarest flying aircraft—a Beechcraft QU-22B Pave Eagle, a once-classified Vietnam War reconnaissance aircraft. Of the small number ever built, only a tiny handful survive, and just one remains airworthy. David spent decades tracking down and restoring this extraordinary aircraft, preserving a unique chapter of aviation history. (YouTube)
This informal meet-and-greet gives aviation enthusiasts the chance to:
- Hear David's incredible journey from fighter pilot to aerospace entrepreneur.
- Learn what it's like to fly military jets and transition into aviation innovation.
- Discover the fascinating history of the secretive QU-22B Pave Eagle.
- See photos and stories from his aircraft restoration project.
- Ask your own questions during an open Q&A.
- Meet David personally following the presentation.
Whether you're passionate about military aviation, vintage aircraft, engineering, entrepreneurship, or simply love a great flying story, this is a session you won't want to miss.
Perfect for: Pilots, aircraft owners, warbird enthusiasts, aviation history buffs, engineers, students, and anyone inspired by extraordinary careers in flight.
Agenda
🕑: 01:00 PM - 02:30 PM
Meet Former Fighter Pilot David Valaer
Info: Hear David's incredible journey from fighter pilot to aerospace entrepreneur.
Learn what it's like to fly military jets and transition into aviation innovation.
Discover the fascinating history of the secretive QU-22B Pave Eagle.
See photos and stories from his aircraft restoration project.
Ask your own questions during an open Q&A.
Meet David personally following the presentation.
Where is it happening?
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
USD 0.00
