Opening Ceremony

Monday, March 23

8:30 a.m.Trinity Ballroom

 

Keynote Speaker: Mike Goulian

Mike Goulian doesn’t just fly an air show; he attacks it.

Millions of air show spectators around the globe have witnessed the ferocity of his performance. Every roll, pull, and tumble of his flight is a deliberate execution of precision. With his aggressive approach to the air show arena, Goulian has mastered the ability to convey his message of passion through flight.

His crisp, athletic style of flying is the evolution of a landmark career as an aerobatic competitor. Goulian reached the pinnacle of the sport when he won the United States Unlimited Aerobatic Championship at only 27 years of age. He was honored to represent the United States at the World Aerobatic Championship on three separate occasions.

Goulian returned to the competitive world with his participation in the famed Red Bull Air Race Championship. He was chosen once again to represent the United States on a global stage. His relentless pursuit of perfection earned him a win at Budapest’s 2009 race. 2018 was a banner year for Team 99: their best one to date, with five podium finishes, two of which in first place; including a win at the famed Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Goulian placed third overall in the 2018 World Championship, a career best for the American pilot.

As an air show superstar Goulian continues to redefine what is possible in the air. His ability to push the limits while adhering to strict safety standards has earned him the reputation of being a true professional in his field. He was recognized for his efforts when the aviation industry bestowed upon him its greatest honors. He is one of a select few to have been awarded the Art Scholl Memorial Showmanship Award, the Bill Barber Award for Showmanship, and the International Council of Airshows Sword of Excellence.

Today, Goulian’s performance is the perfect marriage between man and machine. The only airplane capable of delivering a Goulian performance is the EXTRA 330SC. Composed of high-tech, lightweight carbon-fiber, the EXTRA 330SC is the world’s most high-performance aerobatic airplane.

Despite Goulian’s successes, he remains humble and accessible to air show organizers and fans alike. This rare combination has made Goulian an unforgettable air show favorite.

Join us at the convention’s opening session for a keynote message that you don’t want to miss.

 

Mike Goulian