Pioneering aviator honored in the centennial year of her final flight; original F-16 test pilot recognized for his role in Fort Worth’s greatest aviation success storyFORT WORTH, Texas — August 10, 2026 — The Fort Worth Aviation Museum today announced the recipients of its 2026 Wings Awards: aviation pioneer Bessie Coleman, honored posthumously, and Dave Palmer, one of the original General Dynamics F-16 test pilots. Coleman died on April 30, 1926, at age 34, during a test flight in Florida. - Advertisement -“Bessie Coleman and Dave Palmer represent the full arc of North Texas aviation — a Texas daughter who broke every barrier to fly, and a test pilot who helped give Fort Worth the F-16. — Jim Hodgson, Chairman and Executive Director, Fort Worth Aviation MuseumThe 2026 Wings Awards will be presented on Saturday, August 15th at 9:30 am at the Fort Worth Aviation Museum as part of our National Aviation Day celebrations. About the Fort Worth Aviation MuseumThe Fort Worth Aviation Museum, located at 3300 Ross Avenue at Meacham International Airport, preserves and shares the aviation heritage of North Texas through a collection of approximately 40 aircraft and its Preserve ★ Inspire ★ Educate mission.