Congressman Sam Graves, (R-MO), Chairman of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee

ATCA is very proud to present its highest honor, the Glen A. Gilbert Memorial Award, to Congressman Sam Grave (R-MO), Chairman of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, who has been instrumental in advancing policies that strengthen the aviation system, support workforce development, and ensure long-term operational excellence. As one of the most influential aviation advocates in modern Congressional history, his leadership was critical in securing passage of the landmark Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Reauthorization Act of 2024, which directed meaningful improvements to aviation safety, innovation, and system resilience.

Chairman Graves, who has announced that he will retire after the end of this term, his 13th, is only the third member of Congress among the 37 recipients of the award, joining former House T&I Committee Chairmen Norman Mineta (honored in 1996) and James L. Oberstar (honored in 2005).

Chairman Graves is a lifelong resident of Missouri’s Sixth Congressional District, spanning from the Missouri to the Mississippi Rivers and covering more square miles than nine U.S. states. As a licensed and accomplished pilot with multi-engine and instrument ratings and a longtime advocate for general aviation (GA), he brings a rare combination of operational experience, industry insight, and legislative leadership to his work. The House General Aviation Caucus that he leads is one of the largest in Congress, now totaling nearly 240 members. His commitment to aviation extends beyond policymaking to a deep appreciation for the professionals and communities that rely on a safe, efficient, and modern airspace system.