Former Sikorsky President Killed in Arizona Plane Crash

Jeff Pino, the former president of Sikorsky Aircraft, was killed in a fiery plane crash in Arizona. Pino, 61, was one of two people killed when a World War-II era plane crashed and burned near the town of Maricopa on Friday.

Mark Clark, of the Pinal County Sheriff’s Office, told the Associated Press, the second victim was identified as Nickolas Tramontano, 72, of Brookfield.

“The Sikorsky family is saddened to learn of the sudden loss of former President Jeff Pino. We extend our heartfelt condolences and prayers of sympathy and support to his family and friends during this difficult time,” current Sikorsky president Dan Schultz said in a statement.

“During his six years as President of Sikorsky, Jeff brought personal energy and passion for aviation innovation to our industry. It was during his time leading Sikorsky that the company first flew the X2 Technology™ demonstrator. We remember Jeff as a leader, pioneer, innovator and advocate. May his family be comforted by the lasting impression and legacy Jeff has left behind.”

Pino served as president of Sikorsky from 2006-2012. He currently served as the vice chairman of Colorado-based XTI Aircraft.

“As the former President of Sikorsky Aircraft, Jeff was a true leader, pioneer and industry legend. As the Vice Chairman of XTI Aircraft Company, Jeff was a brilliant strategist, visionary and expert in all things aviation. As our friend, he was all of that and so much more,” David Brody founder and chairman of XTI said in a statement posted to the company website.

“Jeff Pino was loved and respected by all who knew him and our entire state owes him a debt of gratitude for his dynamic leadership of Sikorsky,” Sen. Richard Blumenthal wrote on Twitter. 

Image via Sikorsky Aircraft