The Laura Taber Barbour Foundation Legacy in Aviation Safety – Episode 218

Special guest Henry Gourdji shares the work of the Laura Taber Barbour Foundation, which presents the Laura Taber Barbour Air Safety Award. The air safety award has been given in recognition of aviation safety leadership since 1956. Recipients include John Goglia in 2020.

The award grew out of the 1945 crash of a DC3 that killed all 20 crew and passengers, including Laura Taber Barbour. Her family created the award to recognize significant air safety achievements. Henry highlights the ongoing dedicated work of air safety professionals.

John and Henry discuss the international scope of the Laura Taber Barbour Foundation. In addition to the annual awards, the foundation provides scholarships to encourage students to pursue aviation safety careers.

Todd Curtis and Greg Feith share John’s continued contributions to aviation safety, including the recent AMC Competition in Chicago and a recent U.S. Senate hearing that mentioned his role in preventing accidents like the structural failure of an Aloha Airlines 737 in 1988.

The detectives share their experiences working with younger aviation professionals who have the drive, passion, and capabilities to continue to improve aviation safety.

Related document: Civil Aeronautics Board report of the Laura Taber Barbour accident