Distinguished alumnus wins AIAA Aerodynamics Award

Gulfstream executive and Illinois alumnus Preston A. Henne (BS 1969, Aerospace Engineering) is the 2011 winner of the Aerodynamics Award of the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA).

The award is presented for meritorious achievement in the field of applied aerodynamics, recognizing notable contributions in the development, application, and evaluation of aerodynamic concepts and methods. Henne was recognized for outstanding leadership and contribution in the aerodynamic field of low boom supersonics research.

As senior vice president of Programs, Engineering and Test, Henne oversees Gulfstream’s product program management, engineering, and flight operations. His organization led the development of the Gulfstream 550, recognized with the Collier Trophy in 2003, and the Gulfstream 450. Henne’s organization leads the development of the new large-cabin, mid-range G280 and the new ultra-large-cabin, ultra-long-range G650, both currently in flight test. Henne also directs advanced design and technology development for future product consideration.

He began his aerospace career in 1969 at McDonnell Douglas, where he managed several advanced programs in aerodynamics and acoustics for both military and commercial aircraft. Known for his work in advanced aerodynamic technology, he was responsible for the aerodynamic design of the wing on the C-17, considered the most versatile aircraft in airlift history and winner of the 1994 Collier Trophy for aeronautical achievement.

Henne later served as chief design engineer for the MD-80 aircraft. In 1991, he became vice president and general manager of the MD-90 Program at McDonnell Douglas’ Long Beach Douglas Aircraft facility, where he oversaw the aircraft’s complete development and certification process.

Joining Gulfstream in 1994, Henne is credited with the design, development, test, and certification of the Gulfstream V aircraft, awarded the 1997 Collier Trophy. He became a vice president of General Dynamics in July 1999 when the company acquired Gulfstream.

Henne earned his bachelor’s degree with highest undergraduate honors from the Department of Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering (now called the Department of Aerospace Engineering) at Illinois. He earned a master’s degree in engineering from California State University at Long Beach in 1974. In 2005, the College of Engineering recognized Henne with the Alumni Award for Distinguished Service.

Henne is Embry Riddle Aeronautical University Engineering Advisory Board member, an AIAA Fellow and a Royal Aeronautical Society Fellow. Other awards include the AIAA Engineer of the Year Award in 1996 and the AIAA Hap Arnold Award in 2001 for excellence in aeronautical program management. He was elected to the National Academy of Engineering in 2003. In 2010, he received the Aviation Leader of the Year Award at the Living Legends of Aviation Awards presentation.
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Writer: Susan Mumm, editor, Department of Aerospace Engineering, 217/244-5382.

If you have any questions about the College of Engineering, or other story ideas, contact Rick Kubetz, editor, Engineering Communications Office, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 217/244-7716.