Danny Bond recently passed away (August 12, 2024) after a battle with ALS. Danny was a long-time IAC Chapter 19 (North Carolina) member, and the recipient of the 2022 Curtis Pitts Memorial Trophy. His contributions to IAC were significant.
Curtis Pitts Memorial Trophy:
Danny Bond has for many years been the go-to person for anything Pitts Special related. Danny has typically rebuilt one or two Pitts’ yearly, replenishing what is generally becoming an aging fleet. Working out of his Virginia shop, he has been the go-to guy for any Pitts related maintenance, as well as for other brands of aerobatic aircraft.
Danny has always kept his prices very reasonable, and when asked why, he stated that he does it to give back to the community that means so much to him. And he doesn’t just do Pitts, though that is what he’s known for. He’s also resurrected Extras, Great Lakes, Eagles, and One Designs.
He is legendary in his ability to build aerobatic competition aircraft, rebuild aircraft, design aerodynamic improvements of ailerons, elevators, and rudders increasing the competitive capability of the aircraft. Numerous people have sought him out for rebuilds, reevaluations, and annual and conditional inspections. His work is beyond museum quality.
When my Pitts was destroyed in a ground-based mishap, Danny took it upon himself to get me back in a Pitts, back in the air, and back into competition. He found me an S-1S, and very soon after rebuilt the wings, providing me with a safe and capable aircraft that will serve me for many years to come.
He has also been a stalwart Chapter supporter and contest director of the Farmville, Virginia event for many years. Oh, and he also coaches and judges for regional contests!
Danny’s name is synonymous with Pitts and aerobatics. Every person that has come into contact with Danny Bond will not only call him their friend, but they know that they are his friend as well. His years of work on a countless number of Pitts earns him the recognition of the Curtis Pitts trophy by his peers in IAC.
More information can be found here in the obitiuary: https://www.ealvinsmall.com/obituaries/daniel-bond
Rick Ross
President
IAC 19
