AIRSHOW HALL OF FAME

Alfred C. Pietsch was a trailblazer in the air show industry, whose contributions as a performer, aircraft innovator, and event producer left a profound and lasting impact on aviation.

In the winter of 1967–68, Al and his team built the Starduster Too in just five months at Pietsch Flying Service in Minot, North Dakota. This aircraft became a cornerstone of his airshow career, debuting at the EAA Fly-In at Rockford, Illinois, in 1968. Over the years, Al continuously modified the Starduster Too to meet the rigorous demands of airshow performances, introducing innovations such as improved ailerons, a smoke system, and engine modifications for inverted flight.

Al’s dedication to promoting aviation went beyond his performances. He inspired countless pilots to explore aerobatics and airshows, mentoring many—including his sons, Kent and Warren. Together, the Pietsch family with three planes flew multiple acts and many times were the entire air show line up.  

As a producer, Al was instrumental in organizing numerous air shows, including events in Minot, Williston, and Dickinson, North Dakota, as well as in Canadian cities like Estevan and Weyburn. His influence extended internationally, with notable achievements such as the 50th-anniversary Alcan Highway Air Show Tour in 1992 and a daring six-hour flight across open water to perform in Bermuda’s air show.

Al’s connection to the Royal Canadian Air Force Snowbirds was another highlight of his career. Present during the inception of the iconic aerobatic team, he developed a lifelong bond with its members, earning the rare honor of becoming an Honorary Snowbird in 1995.

One of Al’s most memorable collaborations was with his son Warren, where their dual act culminated in a breathtaking double inverted ribbon cut. This dedication to innovation, skill, and teamwork exemplified Al’s contributions to the industry.

Pietsch’s influence extended far beyond his own performances. As one of the original ICAS members and an early ICAS/FAA-certified Aerobatic Competency Evaluator (ACE), he helped shape the standards of modern air show safety and performance.

Al passed away on August 18, 1995, just before a scheduled air show in Dickinson, ND. His legacy continues to resonate in the air show community, inspiring performers and organizers alike to reach new heights in aviation excellence.