Betty Skelton, First Lady of Aerobatics

WINTER PARK, FLA. – Aerobatics legend and International Aerobatics Club Hall of Fame inductee, Betty Skelton – the “First Lady of Aerobatics” – died at her home in Winter Park, Florida, September 1, 2011, at the age of 85. Skelton was a pioneer aerobatic competitor and air show performer, winning the U.S. National Women’s Aerobatic Championships for three straight years (1948-1950). She flew the Pitts Special “Lil Stinker,” designed by Curtis Pitts, which is now displayed in the National Air & Space Museum. Skelton also flew in the Cleveland National Air Races and achieved speed records in a P-51 Mustang (421.6 mph) and an altitude mark of 29,050 feet in a Piper J-3 Cub.