Aerobatics pilot, builder, mechanic, innovator

The Columbus, OH native was one of the most successful aerobatics pilots in history, flying a plane he built and modified himself. Loudenslager is one of two aviators to win seven United States National Aerobatic Championships (1975, 1976, 1977, 1978, 1980, 1981, 1982) and one of three Americans to win an FIA World Aerobatic Championship (1980). A visit to the 1964 Reno Air Races inspired the former B-52 mechanic to become a pilot. He completed a Stephens Akro aerobatic plane in 1970, then modified it so extensively that it was rechristened as the Loudenslager Laser 200. He won all his championships in it, which greatly influenced the design of the next generation of aerobatic aircraft; Loudenslager was killed in a highway accident in 1997. Loudenslager won numerous honors, including the prestigious National Academy of Sports Editors’ Victor Award. His Laser 200 is on permanent display at the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum annex. He was inducted into the International Aerobatic Hall of Fame in 1991.