Art Scholl was an incredibly successful aerobatic pilot. He was a three-time member of the U.S. Aerobatic Team, a racer at the Reno Air Races, an airshow pilot, and a fixed base operator with an aerobatic school.
Success is always better when shared, and who better to share with than your four-legged best friend. Aileron, the majestically wind-swept dog in the picture below, often flew with Scholl in his deHavilland Chipmunk, riding on the wing as Scholl taxied on the runway or perched on his shoulder in the aircraft.
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Aileron perched atop Art Scholl's shoulder.
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Aileron's flying sweater on display at the Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, Virginia.
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Top of Aileron's flying sweater.
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The aerobatic station at the Udvar-Hazy Center where Aileron's sweater is on display.
Aileron even had a flying sweater with “AILERON” embroidered in yellow thread across the top. Aileron’s sweater as well as Scholl’s jumpsuit and airplane are on display at the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, Virginia.
Whether your dog moonlights in aviation, or simply has a talent for fetching, happy National Dog Day.
Does your pet have a special talent, share an interest in aviation, or have some high-flying tricks? Tell us about it in the comments.