Capt. James “Jet” Black (Delta) recently secured his place in aviation history once again by breaking his own international speed record on an airline route. He originally made aviation history in 2004 as a first officer by earning a speed record for a flight from Venice, Italy, to New York City, N.Y. Earlier this year, Black surpassed his previous achievement by flying the same route even faster, thanks to advancements in aircraft technology and optimized flight management techniques.

Reflecting on his accomplishment, Black credited improvements in turbulence avoidance systems, wind optimization strategies, and more advanced flight management systems (FMS) as key contributors to his success.

“Twenty years ago, pilots manually entered selected winds aloft and temperature data into the FMS for many waypoints,” said Black. “Now, that same data is downloaded to the plane for a range of altitudes at each waypoint and subsequently updated in flight every three hours. As a result, pilots can now view the optimum altitude information with the FMS.” Such innovations not only allow pilots to achieve greater precision and efficiency but also ensure safety across North Atlantic routes.

After his recent record claim was verified by the National Aeronautic Association (NAA), the organization acknowledged Black’s accomplishment, presenting him with an official certificate of achievement. It’s the same recognition received by aviation legends Chuck Yeager, who broke the sound barrier, and Amelia Earhart, who circumnavigated the globe. NAA honors those who’ve achieved record-setting milestones as a way to encourage improvement in aeronautical performance and promote the spirit of exploration and discovery.

Since its founding in 1905, the NAA has celebrated records and achievements that showcase the essence of flight, fostering both innovation and professional excellence. In the early days of aviation, the NAA issued all pilot certificates in the U.S. until 1929, many of which were signed by Orville Wright when the aviation pioneer served as the organization’s chair. As the official certifier of aeronautics records in the U.S. for the Fédération Aéronautique Internationale (FAI), the NAA ensures that each achievement is carefully documented.

To participate in the NAA’s aeronautic records program, pilots must first obtain an FAI Sporting License. This license, available through the NAA, is free with NAA membership. All the members of the Apollo 11 crew had FAI Sporting Licenses and set world records, including astronauts Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin, who received recognition for their record-setting achievements on that historic space mission.

Once licensed, pilots can challenge an existing record or establish a new one, either during regular performance of their professional piloting duties or while engaged in off-duty personal aviation activities. Many city-to-city speed records remain unclaimed, offering pilots a chance to earn recognition and leave their mark on aviation history. The NAA records database provides a valuable resource for pilots researching information about existing records.

In addition to speed records, the NAA offers the Sustainable Wings Certification, which highlights achievements involving flights using sustainable aviation fuel. This certification aligns with ALPA’s environmental goals and the aviation industry’s broader commitment to achieving net zero emissions by 2050. By participating in such initiatives, pilots not only enhance their skills but also contribute to a more sustainable future for aviation.

Black’s record-setting achievements demonstrate that the opportunity to set or break an aeronautical record is available to any pilot with a sense of adventure and an FAI Sporting License. For more information about obtaining the FAI license, visit the NAA’s website.