Former Gulfstream President Larry Flynn Dies At Age 71

Larry Flynn, former president of Gulfstream Aerospace and vice president of General Dynamics, died April 12 after a battle with cancer—he was 71.

Current Gulfstream President Mark Burns shared his condolences.

“Gulfstream is saddened to hear of the passing of Larry Flynn. Larry was world-renowned in the aviation space and for two decades led Gulfstream through continued success and industry leadership,” Burns said. “He was also a dear friend and mentor to me. During Larry’s tenure as president, Gulfstream saw many accomplishments, including the introduction of the next generation of business aviation with the launch of the G500 and G600. We extend our sincere condolences to Larry’s family during this time.”

Flynn retired from Gulfstream in 2015 after 20 years of service. Previously, he served as vice president with Stevens Aviation, where he managed six different fixed-base operators. Flynn’s extensive work experience was preceded by his studies at the University of Kansas, where he earned his Master’s degree in Manpower Management.

During his tenure as Gulfstream president, Flynn was inducted into the Living Legends of Aviation in 2020.

“NBAA joins with the international aviation community in mourning the loss of Larry Flynn, former president of Gulfstream Aerospace and a tireless industry champion,” says Ed Bolen, National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) president. “Larry was an influential voice on NBAA’s Advisory Council, and a leading presence at our annual convention and other events for more than 30 years. We extend our condolences to Larry’s family and his many friends across business aviation.”

Pete Bunce, General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) president and CEO, praised Flynn for his contribution to business aviation.

“Larry Flynn was a staunch champion of business aviation. His expertise in all aspects of the industry helped shepherd the growth of Gulfstream and business aviation,” Bunce said. “Larry led an illustrious career and devoted himself to furthering the recognition of the importance of general and business aviation. GAMA is grateful for the leadership and contributions that Larry shared as a board member and a member of our Executive Committee, leading our Communications Committee. He will forever be remembered for his steadfast dedication to the industry. On behalf of GAMA and its membership, I offer our deepest condolences to Larry’s family, friends and colleagues.”

Flynn is survived by his wife and two daughters. At the request of his family, donations in his honor can be made to the West Michigan Aviation Academy or the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation.