The San Francisco Aeronautical Society’s Annual Gala soared to new heights this year — a sold-out evening that raised more than $123,000, setting a new record to support the Society’s mission of preserving aviation history.
Held inside the SFO Museum, which celebrated its 25th anniversary, the event drew aviation leaders, industry professionals, and longtime supporters for a night of celebration, storytelling, and community spirit.
Guests enjoyed a sumptuous filet mignon dinner before a spirited live auction featuring a one-week stay in a two-bedroom condo in Hawaii, a trip to Seattle, a round of golf for four at the Olympic Club, tickets to a 49ers game and so much more!
Honoring 25 Years of the SFO Museum
Kicking off the evening, John L. Martin, President of the San Francisco Aeronautical Society Board, welcomed guests and reflected on the Museum’s enduring impact. “Tonight, we celebrate a remarkable milestone—25 years of the San Francisco Aviation Museum at SFO,” Martin said. “Through exhibitions, educational programs, and community partnerships, the Museum has inspired generations to explore the world of flight.”
Jennifer McCabe, Director and Chief Curator of the SFO Museum, followed with an inspiring look back at the Museum’s origins and the people who made it possible. “Tonight, we mark 25 years of imagination, courage, and curiosity,” McCabe said. “This museum exists because people believed an airport could be more than a place of transit — it could be a place of transformation.”
She credited Louis A. Turpen for envisioning the museum within SFO’s international terminal and the San Francisco Aeronautical Society for turning that vision into reality. “Angela Gittens helped lay the foundation for the partnership we’re celebrating tonight — a partnership that made this museum possible,” McCabe added, honoring this year’s award recipient and Society Board member.
Honoring Angela Gittens
The night’s highlight was the presentation of the 2025 Achievement in Aviation Award to Angela Gittens, a trailblazer whose career has spanned leadership roles at SFO, Atlanta, Miami, and the Airports Council International. “It has been an honor and a pleasure to serve on the San Francisco Aeronautical Society Board,” Gittens said with a smile. “But I assure you, I had no hand in deciding to give me this award!”
She dedicated the honor to Louis A. Turpen, who mentored her early in her career. “He brought me into this dazzling business of aviation and mentored me into positions and success beyond my tenure at SFO,” she said.
Reflecting on her journey, Gittens emphasized teamwork and purpose. “It takes every sector within the aviation ecosystem to achieve safety, security, customer service, environmental responsibility, and economic vitality,” she said.
A Night of Community and Inspiration
With record-breaking fundraising, moving tributes, and a shared passion for preserving aviation’s legacy, the 2025 SFAS Gala proved that the spirit of flight — and of community — continues to soar.
As Martin said in closing: “We are grateful that you have joined us tonight to honor Angela and to support our Aviation Museum and the Aeronautical Society in its mission to preserve aviation history.”
The San Francisco Aeronautical Society’s future looks as bright as its past — powered by visionaries, volunteers, and believers in the power of flight.
Written By Vanessa Guerra