David Barger, founding president and former CEO of JetBlue Airways, will present the National Air and Space Museum’s 2015 Charles A. Lindbergh Memorial Lecture May 26. Established in 1982, the Lindbergh Lecture is held annually in May to commemorate the pioneer aviator’s solo nonstop flight across the Atlantic Ocean May 20—21, 1927. It is the museum’s longest-running named lecture series. The lecture is free, but tickets must be reserved in advance. Information is available on the museum’s website at Lindbergh Lecture.

In his presentation titled “JetBlue: Bringing Humanity Back to Air Travel,” Barger will speak about the evolution of the airline business during the past 35 years, the triumphs of JetBlue in the industry and the future of airline travel.

Barger was surrounded by flight from a young age, growing up with a pilot and a flight attendant as parents. His career in business led him to the airline industry and eventually to JetBlue, where he was the founding president and chief operating officer. JetBlue Airways began in 1998, promising to change the airline landscape with low-cost fares and amenities such as in-flight entertainment at every seat. As a result, the airline enjoyed great success and has consistently ranked at the top of customer service surveys.

Event attendees are encouraged to arrive early for a free viewing of Living in the Age of Airplanes, a new IMAX movie narrated by Harrison Ford, which will be shown before the lecture begins. Filmed in 18 countries across all seven continents, it explores the countless ways aviation affects people’s lives, even when they do not fly. With stunning visuals, highlight for one of the most extraordinary and awe-inspiring aspects of the modern world.

This year’s event is made possible by Pratt & Whitney and United Technologies Corporation.

The National Air and Space Museum building on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., is located at Sixth Street and Independence Avenue S.W. The museum’s Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center is located in Chantilly, Va., near Washington Dulles International Airport. Both facilities are open daily from 10 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. (closed Dec. 25). Admission is free, but there is a $15 fee for parking at the Udvar-Hazy Center.

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