The Aerospace Industries Association announced David Melcher will be its new president and chief executive officer, according to a June 4 release. He will take over from Marion Blakey, who announced she was leaving the position in February. Melcher, who comes to AIA from Excelis Inc., where he served as CEO and president, is an “exceptional leader” with both corporate and military experience who brings an “outstanding record of achievement to AIA,” said AIA Chairman David Joyce, CEO of GE Aviation. Melcher served in the Army for 32 years prior to joining ITT Corporation, which spun off into Excelis, retiring a lieutenant general. He also served in the Pentagon as the Army’s military deputy for budget and deputy chief of staff for programs. “Our nation faces a number of critical global challenges and we must have a strong, vibrant aerospace and defense industry,” Melcher said, adding the industry must invest in research and development in the coming years to discover new technologies with civilian and military applications.
Seven F-22 Raptor pilots have recently been awarded one of the military’s highest decorations for their actions during operations in the Middle East. Six of the pilots were decorated with the Distinguished Flying Cross for their role in Operation Midnight Hammer, the June 2025 strikes against Iranian nuclear facilities.