LITTLE ROCK - The Arkansas Aviation Historical Society inducted three new members, during a ceremony held Nov. 7 at the Ron Robinson Theater in Little Rock.Among the inductees was Kenneth Wayne Johnson, a native of Rison and Black Pilots of America leader who helped bring the organization’s annual “Operation Skyhook” event to Pine Bluff.Johnson was introduced to flying in 1981 at Grider Field while a student at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff. The experience would spark Johnson’s lifelong passion for aviation. He would go on to earn Commercial, Multi-engine, and Certified Flight Instructor (Instrument) pilot license ratings.In 1993, Johnson was appointed to the Arkansas Aeronautics Commission where he served for 12 years, including two years as chairman. As a member of Black Pilots of America (BPA), Johnson was instrumental in bringing the organization’s annual “Operation Skyhook” event to Pine Bluff. Each year during the event, pilots introduce Pine Bluff youth to aviation by donating more than 300 free airplane rides.Johnson was inducted into the BPA Hall of Fame in 2022.He serves as general manager of the Pine Bluff Wastewater Utility Department and chairman of the Pine Bluff Aviation (Airport) Commission....
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