It is with deep sadness that we learned of the last flight of Martin Hinterwaldner, member of the Society of Flight Test Engineers European Chapter, a distinguished aeronautical engineer and pioneering test pilot. Martin did not merely fly aircraft; he pushed the boundaries of what was possible, ensuring that the next generation of flight was safer, more efficient, and more advanced.

Martin’s journey was one of relentless curiosity and technical mastery. His career spanned the most critical sectors of aviation: military defense, cutting-edge research, and commercial innovation.

His career was a testament to his versatility. He served the German Air Force as an Instructor in Military Flight Safety, at WTD61 he operated at the intersection of engineering and execution as a Test Pilot and Flight Test Engineer. His work with the DLR (German Aerospace Center) as both a Test Pilot and Expedition Pilot showcased his courage and his ability to operate in the world’s most challenging environments, bridging the gap between theoretical research and real-world application.

Later he joined what's now known as Airbus Defence and Space, acting as a Flight Test Campaign Leader for the Eurofighter and later transitioning into the future of aviation, as he applied his expertise to the development of Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS).

In his later years, Martin took on leadership roles that shaped the strategic direction of aerospace organizations, most notably serving as the Head of Flight Test & Operations at Dornier Seawings. There, he combined his technical brilliance with a visionary leadership style, guiding teams through the complexities of maritime aviation.

He tirelessly engaged in numerous projects, such as bringing the Fanjet to the air, guiding future Flight Testers on professional tracks working as a Flight Test Instructor with Euro Flight Test, or supporting colleagues and friends with private aviation projects.

To the people he knew, Martin was a mentor, a friend, an expert, a helping hand, proud of what he did and down-to-earth to teach others the lessons he learned throughout.

Martin passed during a mission that best proved his passion for aviation. He leaves behind a legacy written in the clouds.

Though he has completed his final flight, the safety, innovation, and excellence he championed will continue to guide every pilot who takes to the skies.

Blue skies and tailwinds, Martin. You will be deeply missed.

The 37th SFTE European Chapter Symposium in Berlin is pleased to announce a second technical tour opportunity for attendees.

In addition to the previously announced visit to ILA Berlin Air Show 2026, participants will now also have the opportunity to join an exclusive technical tour at the Rolls-Royce Dahlewitz Facility, one of Europe’s leading aerospace propulsion centres.

Attendees may choose between:

• A technical tour at ILA Berlin

• A technical visit to Rolls-Royce Dahlewitz

Due to limited availability, participation in both tours will be allocated on a first come, first served basis.

The 37th Symposium, themed “Dreams and Hard Realities in Flight Test”, will bring together flight test professionals, engineers, pilots, and industry leaders from across the aerospace community for technical presentations, networking, and discussion on the future of flight testing.

We encourage attendees to complete their registration early to secure their preferred technical tour option.

We are pleased to announce the establishment of a strategic partnership with ILA, representing a significant milestone in our ongoing commitment to supporting the advancement of the global aerospace sector.

This collaboration brings together complementary expertise, a shared vision for innovation, and a strong alignment in driving industry progress. As a globally recognised platform for aerospace innovation, dialogue, and leadership, ILA plays a central role in convening key stakeholders across the international aviation ecosystem.

Through this partnership, both organisations will work collaboratively to foster knowledge exchange, strengthen industry connections, and support initiatives that contribute to the sustainable growth and evolution of aerospace. The agreement reflects a mutual ambition to not only align strategic objectives, but also to actively enable innovation, promote best practices, and deliver long-term value to the community.

We look forward to a productive collaboration and to unlocking new opportunities that will help shape the future of aviation.

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