NBAA is recognizing FlightSafety International chairman, president and CEO Bruce Whitman with its American Spirit Award. The award, to be presented next month at the association's annual convention, will honor Whitman for his “commitment to helping others throughout the global aviation community.”

“Throughout his tenure, Bruce's commitment to fostering aviation safety worldwide has been equaled by his tireless devotion to numerous aviation organizations and philanthropic endeavors,” said NBAA president and CEO Ed Bolen.

Whitman has spent 55 years with FlightSafety, playing an integral role in its growth to a global training provider and simulator manufacturer. He had held senior roles at NBAA for two years before joining FlightSafety in 1961. While at FlightSafety he has remained active with the association, including serving on the Associate Member Advisory Council.

Outside those organizations, Whitman’s volunteer activities have been numerous. He has sat on the boards or executive committees of the Congressional Medal of Honor Foundation, Orbis International, the Civil Air Patrol, the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, the Corporate Angel Network and the National World War II Museum.