NBAA to Honor Roger Whyte with Doswell Award
Washington, DC, Sept. 14, 2026 – The National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) is set to honor esteemed business aviation leader Roger Whyte with the John P. “Jack” Doswell Award at the upcoming NBAA Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (NBAA-BACE) in Las Vegas from October 20-22.
Roger Whyte has played a critical role in shaping the modern business aviation industry, particularly in its expansion across Europe, Africa, and the Asia-Pacific. He has held significant executive roles at Cessna Aircraft Company and Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation, and has contributed to the NBAA Board of Directors, including as chairman of the NBAA Advisory Council.
“Roger embodies the finest qualities of business aviation—vision, integrity, and service,” said NBAA President and CEO Ed Bolen. “His leadership has globalized business aviation while strengthening supportive organizations.”
Beginning his aviation career in 1974, Whyte worked as the general manager for OEFAG Aviation Services, later joining Cessna in 1982 where he rose through the ranks to senior vice president of sales and marketing by the time of his retirement in 2010. His tenure included a strong focus on international sales.
Whyte is also a founding member of the Air Charter Safety Foundation and has expanded business aviation’s presence in China and the Asia-Pacific through initiatives such as the Asian Business Aviation Conference & Exhibition.
His contributions to the industry extend to serving on the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and the National Aviation Hall of Fame. Even after retirement, he actively advises various organizations, including Avcon Jet and Duncan Aviation.
“Roger has been a trusted voice and a passionate advocate for business aviation,” Bolen stated. “We are honored to recognize his extensive contributions with the Doswell Award.”
Named after the former director of flight operations for FlightSafety International, the John P. “Jack” Doswell Award honors outstanding contributions to business aviation.
The NBAA-BACE is the premier event for business aviation, featuring the industry’s latest innovations and leadership. For more information, visit NBAA-BACE.
Founded in 1947, the NBAA is the leading association for companies that utilize general aviation aircraft to enhance business efficiency and success. To learn more, visit nbaa.org.
For media inquiries or to receive press releases, subscribe via NBAA Press Release Email List.
