Andrew J. Hiller

Originally from Highland, Michigan and a 1989 WMU graduate with a bachelor’s degree in Aviation Engineering and Operations Technology, Andrew began his aviation career at a Beechcraft Dealership/FBO in Pontiac, MI. He then joined United Airlines in Indianapolis, IN as a 737 Flight Controls Engineer and was instrumental in adjusting the flight control maintenance program to improve reliability and efficiency. As a Sr. Aircraft Engineer for America West Airlines (AWA) in Phoenix, AZ, he implemented the first foldable, full face, crew oxygen mask.  When the Airbus A320 was experiencing severe tail vibration in flight, after numerous test flights, he discovered the source of the problem, thus avoiding what could have proven catastrophic if not detected and resolved. AWA merged with USAirways and then with American Airlines, he was an integral part of each airline stationed in Phoenix, Charlotte and Dallas. In 2009 US Airways flight 1549, “Miracle on the Hudson”, landed in the Hudson River in New York City and he was part of the aircraft retrieval and the official crash investigation. A licensed Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) mechanic, he accomplished numerous engineering aircraft modifications and prototypes, including the initial satellite-based Wi-Fi systems for the A319/320/321/330, 737 and 757 fleets.