Max Conrad: Flying Grandfather Who Become A Hometown Hero

🛩️ The incredible tale of a true aviation hero who pushed the limits of flight and saved lives in Winona, Minnesota! 🏅 #WinonaMinnesota #HometownHeroes #MinnesotaNews

WINONA, MN – In the annals of aviation history, few figures loom as large as Max Conrad. This daring pilot, known affectionately as the “Flying Grandfather,” lived a life that was equal parts adventure, tragedy, and triumph.

From his early days as a barnstormer to his record-setting flights across the globe, Conrad’s story is one of unwavering passion, boundless courage, and an indomitable spirit that refused to be grounded. Born at the dawn of the 20th century in the small town of Winona, Minnesota, Max Conrad seemed destined for a life less ordinary.

🌎 A Life of Record-Setting Aviation

Max Conrad, born in 1903 in Winona, Minnesota (our home town!), lived an extraordinary life dedicated to pushing the boundaries of flight. Known as the “Flying Grandfather,” Conrad’s aviation career spanned over five decades, during which he set nine official world records in light aircraft, with three still standing today.

🛩️ Early Years and Challenges

Conrad’s passion for flying began in 1928 with his first solo flight. He soon established Conrad Flying Service in Winona, which he operated until 1943. Tragedy struck in 1929 when a woman walked into his spinning propeller and was killed. Conrad himself suffered a serious head injury trying to save her.

Despite this setback, he persevered. In the 1930s, Conrad offered airplane rides and performed in air shows around Winona. During WWII, he ran six flight schools training military pilots. One notable student was Arthur Donahue, who went on to fly for the RAF in the Battle of Britain.

🏆 A Legacy of Long-Distance Records

It was in the 1950s and 60s that Conrad truly made his mark. He specialized in long-distance flights in small aircraft, racking up over 50,000 flight hours and nearly 200 ocean crossings.

Some of his most impressive records include:

1959: Longest non-stop light plane flight at the time, from Casablanca to Los Angeles (7,668 miles)
1959: Casablanca to El Paso, the record for the 1000-1750kg class that still stands today
1961: Fastest around-the-world light plane flight, averaging 123 mph

For these achievements, Conrad received the prestigious Harmon Trophy in 1964 and the Louis Blériot medal in 1952.

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🌪️ Heroism During the Armistice Day Blizzard

Beyond his records, Conrad was a true hero. During the devastating Armistice Day Blizzard in 1940, he flew repeated missions in harrowing conditions to locate and aid stranded duck hunters.

Fighting 60 mph winds, subzero temperatures and heavy snow, he dropped supplies and directed rescue boats, saving numerous lives. He was commended by the Minnesota House of Representatives for his brave actions.

Max Conrad Airport in Winona, MN — *The Winona Municipal Airport in Winona, Minnesota.*

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 A Passion for Inspiring the Next Generation

Conrad was dedicated to passing on his love of aviation. In 1953, he launched the “Winona Experiment,” teaching 70 high school students aircraft construction, maintenance and piloting over 13 weeks. That same year, his “Paul Revere Flight” promoted the project, stopping at all 48 state capitals.

Max Conrad’s legacy lives on, not just in the records he set, but in the many lives he touched. The Winona Municipal Airport proudly bears his name to this day. Though he passed away in 1979, his spirit of adventure, bravery and passion for flight continues to inspire generations of aviators. Max Conrad is a true hometown hero!

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