Arthur Collins to Feature on Norwegian Air’s Tailfin Hero

The aviation pioneer and founder of Rockwell Collins, Arthur Collins, is to join more than 80 other aviation heroes to feature on Norwegian Air’s Boeing 737 MAX and 787 Dreamliner aircraft this year as a part of the airline’s Tailfin Hero program.

Norwegian Air’s Tailfin Hero program has been part of its identity since 2002, when it began.

‘Our tailfin hero program was created to honour individuals who have pushed boundaries, made a difference and inspired others,’ said Thomas Ramdahl, chief commercial officer at Norwegian Air. ‘Through our partnership with Rockwell Collins, we learned of Arthur Collins’ story, whose innovative spirit reflects those characteristics, making him a perfect tailfin hero and part of the Norwegian family.’

Arthur Collins founded today’s aviation giant, Rockwell Collins, at the age of 15 in his basement with his ham radio, following the achievement of his radio license in 1923. The original company was called Collins Radio Company, was formally incorporated in 1933 and designed and produced shortwave radio equipment.

He gained fame in 1925 by reaching John Reinartz using his radio system, who was in Greenland on a scientific expedition and had lost contact with the US Navy. The young Arthur Collins would famously ride his bicycle down to the Cedar Rapids telegraph office to relay the messages he received about daily scientific findings to Washington. This won him deserved acclaim and kick-started his career in earnest.

Arthur Collins will feature in the aircraft Tailfin Hero program throughout 2018.