Porter chairman Don Carty lands spot in Canada’s Aviation Hall of Fame

Donald “Don” Carty, founding and current chairman of Porter Airlines’ board, has been inducted into Canada’s Aviation Hall of Fame (CAHF), recognizing a career in aviation spanning more than five decades.

Carty received the honour during a ceremony held Sept. 17 at Porter Airlines’ aircraft maintenance facilities at Ottawa International Airport.

The induction recognizes Carty’s extensive career in Canadian and international aviation, including his role in Porter’s growth over the past two decades.

As Porter’s chairman, Carty has helped oversee the airline’s development from its early days at Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport into a growing North American carrier.

“This recognition by Canada’s Aviation Hall of Fame is a genuine career highlight,” said Carty in a press release. “Every stop in my journey has been unique, with each airline having its own influence on the industry. My time with Porter continues to be among the most enjoyable things that I’ve done. It’s a shining example of having a vision that no one else did and then working incredibly hard to see it through to reality against long odds in the eyes of many people. I’m extremely proud of what we’ve accomplished to date in redefining the way Canadians fly today.

“During my 20-plus years at American, I witnessed transformative industry shifts – from deregulation and open skies policies, to launching the world's first major airline loyalty program. CP Air and Canadian helped to form the foundation of competitive air service in the country that exists in different forms today. And Virgin America and Hawaiian demonstrated exceptional service innovations and operational standards that made everyone get better. Aviation is a remarkable business and it continues to be as dynamic as ever.”

A career spanning major airlines

Carty previously served as chairman and CEO of AMR Corporation and American Airlines, which was the world’s largest airline during his tenure.

His career also includes serving as president and CEO of CP Air, later rebranded as Canadian Pacific Air Lines, as well as chairman of Virgin America and a board member of Hawaiian Airlines.

At Porter, Carty played an important role in establishing the airline and strengthening its credibility with investors, according to company founder and Executive Chairman Robert Deluce, himself a 2017 CAHF inductee.

“Don was vital to stress testing our business plan and lending the highest degree of credibility to our efforts. This was particularly meaningful with investors, who valued Don’s global perspective. The fact that Don continues to lead our Board of Directors and that all of our initial investors remain with the company today speaks volumes about his influence. He remains among the most influential leaders in the history of our industry,” Deluce said.

Porter CEO Michael Deluce, who was also part of the airline’s founding executive team, highlighted Carty’s role as an advisor during the company’s formative years.

“We were attempting to do something unique at the time by revitalizing Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport and making it a real alternative to what was previously in the market. This wasn’t a straightforward process and we had to consistently find creative ways of achieving our objectives. Don was always available to offer advice and support whenever it was needed. It’s something that I continue to value with our relationship today.”

CAHF recognizes 2026 class

Carty was one of four people inducted into Canada’s Aviation Hall of Fame as part of its 2026 class.

Robert Banks was recognized for his contributions to human factors research in aviation, including work involving flight surgeon training and the physiological stresses associated with flight.

Ken Molson was honoured for his work preserving Canadian aviation history, including serving as the first curator of the National Aviation Museum and developing archival initiatives documenting the country’s aviation heritage.

Michael Potter was recognized for founding the Vintage Wings of Canada Foundation and creating VinTech Aero Inc., which specializes in restoring and repairing historic “warbird” aircraft.

The Air Transport Association of Canada (ATAC) also received the Belt of Orion Award for Excellence. Established in 1934, ATAC has represented Canada’s commercial aviation sector for more than 90 years.

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