Resource Hub Last Hover: US Sen. James Inhofe General aviation advocate served in Congress from 1994 until 2023. Former US Sen. James Inhofe (R-Okla.), a pilot, distinguished public servant, and staunch advocate for general aviation, died from complications of a stroke on Jul. 9, 2024. He was 89. Inhofe’s passion for aviation defined both his personal and professional life. His advocacy for general aviation focused on improving airport infrastructure, enhancing safety measures, and expanding access to aviation education and opportunities. “Sen. Inhofe was a true champion of general aviation, and his absence will be deeply felt,” says James Viola, president and CEO of VAI. “On behalf of the vertical flight community, we extend our heartfelt condolences to his wife, Kay, and their children—thank you for sharing him with us. We are grateful for his dedication to advancing our industry.” VAI President and CEO James Viola with then-Sen. James Inhofe at the 2021 Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) AirVenture Oshkosh show in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. (James A. Viola Photo) Significant contributions to aviation legislation marked Inhofe’s tenure in the Senate from 1994 until his retirement in 2023. As a member of the Senate General Aviation Caucus and a pilot himself, he brought unique insights to congressional debates and authored crucial bills such as the 2012 Pilot’s Bill of Rights and the 2021 RETAIN (Recognizing and Ensuring Taxpayer Access to Infrastructure Necessary for) GPS and Satellite Communications Act. These laws address critical issues affecting aviation infrastructure and navigation systems and have had a lasting impact on the industry. “We valued Sen. Inhofe’s partnership on initiatives like the RETAIN GPS Act, where his deep understanding of aviation challenges was invaluable,” says Viola. “His legacy of public service and advocacy for aviation safety and growth will endure.” Inhofe is survived by his wife, three children, and several grandchildren. His son Perry, also a pilot, died in a 2013 plane crash in Oklahoma.
