The IAC is grieved to learn of the passing of Betty Stewart, IAC 1992, on November 23, 2025. Bob “Bwana” Buckley, IAC 9903, called Betty “Colorado [IAC] Chapter 12’s two-time World Aerobatic Champion, consecutive (’80 & ’82),” and credits her for getting him into IAC originally, saying she “elevated [him] to the pinnacle of aerobatics – a Pitts Pilot/Owner - from back in the mid 70’s.”
Mike Heuer, IAC 4, said, “I’ve known Betty since about 1976. Attached is one photo of several I have of her with the team in 1976. Probably one of the most difficult world championships our teams have ever competed in and that’s a story of itself.”
Photo provided by Mike Heuer, IAC Historian
Text below from this iac.org article
Betty Stewart became the 30th inductee into the International Aerobatic Hall of Fame during a presentation at the EAA Museum, Oshkosh, Wisconsin on Friday, November 5, 2004. Stewart, of Moscow, Idaho, was a member of the 1976, 1980 and 1982 United States aerobatic teams. She is honored as the first person to win the world champion title at two consecutive world events. In 1980, she won three individual gold medals and the title Women's World Aerobatic Champion. In 1982, she repeated this feat winning the title, another three individual golds, and the silver team medal. Stewart continues to support the growth of grassroots aerobatics in both powered aircraft and gliders serving as a judge, critiquer, and coach to aerobatic competitors.
Photo Provided by Bob "Bwana" Buckley, taken in Boulder, CO.
