Albert Boyd


Albert G Boyd was a pioneering test pilot for the United States Air Force. During his 30-year career, he logged more than 23,000 hours of flight time in 723 military aircraft. When he retired in 1957, he had flown every aircraft type operated by the USAF, including attack, cargo, trainer, fighter, experimental, bomber, mission trainer, liaison, observation, and general aviation planes and helicopters.
From 1947 to 1957, Boyd flew and approved every aircraft type acquired by the USAF. When he retired, he was praised as the "Father of Modern Flight Testing," "World's Number One Test Pilot," "Dean of American Test Pilots" and "Father of USAF Test Pilots."
His assignments included:
Boyd piloted the prototype Lockheed P-80 Shooting Star, modified as a racer and designated P-80R, National Museum of the USAF. Retrieved: 9 October 2012. to 623.73 mph on 19 June 1947. This was recognised as an official air speed record, although this speed had already been exceeded by the Me 163 and Me 262 in 1944.
Boyd led the newly formed Air Force's X-1 supersonic flight program and chose Chuck Yeager to pilot the plane. Yeager described Boyd as a strict disciplinarian who would enforce USAF uniform regulations, often with a very loud voice. "You might be his star pilot, but Lord help you if you came before him in his office with an un-shined belt buckle", Yeager said. Boyd was highly respected by his subordinates.
Boyd died on September 18, 1976. He and his wife Anna Lu are buried at Arlington National Cemetery.

Awards