Charles Taylor Master Mechanic Award
About the Award
Named in honor of Mr. Charles Taylor, the first aviation mechanic in powered flight, the Charles Taylor “Master Mechanic” Award recognizes the lifetime accomplishments of senior mechanics. Mr. Taylor served as the Wright brothers' mechanic and is credited with designing and building the engine for their first successful aircraft.
Selection Process
The Flight Standards District Office (FSDO) airworthiness supervisor and an airworthiness safety inspector make up a selection committee that reviews the application letters and selects qualified individuals.
We award recipients a lapel pin and a certificate signed by the Administrator. Your spouse also receives a smaller version of the lapel pin for his or her contribution. Your name is added to the "Roll of Honor" book kept at the Washington, DC, Federal Aviation Administration Building.
Eligibility
To be eligible for the award, you must:
- Have 50 years in aviation maintenance as an accredited mechanic or repairman
- Be an FAA-certificated mechanic or repairman for a minimum of 30 years
You are not eligible for the award if FAA has revoked your certificate. The selection committee reviews previous disciplinary actions, other than revocation, with consideration towards eligibility.
To Apply
You or any person on your behalf may apply for the award by sending a notarized letter to your local FSDO.
The letter must state:
- The kind of certificate(s) you held, including the original issue date(s) of the certificate(s), if available
- A detailed resume of past employment
- Three letters of recommendation from certificated mechanics or repairman
Contact your local FSDO for more information.
View Advisory Circular 65-26C for more information.
View a list of current Charles Taylor Award recipients (PDF).
Note: If you are a Master Mechanic Award recipient and your name is not on this list please contact the Flight Standards District Office (FSDO) that issued you the award, and notify them of the omission. They can correct the oversight by contacting AFS-300, who will update this list.
For more safety information, visit the FAA Aviation Safety Program website (the home of SPANS!).
