By Jide Francis
Society Page Editor
Kirk Hawkins, the 58-year-old founder of American aircraft manufacturer ICON Aircraft, has died in a wingsuit accident in the Swiss Alps after colliding with trees during a high-altitude jump.
Hawkins, a former U.S. Air Force fighter pilot and aviation entrepreneur, leapt from a helicopter near the peak of the Eiger summit on Tuesday, August 19, alongside three other thrill-seekers. While the group attempted the daring flight, Hawkins tragically lost control and struck trees west of Schüssellouwinegraben, according to Swiss police. Authorities confirmed his death at the scene and said investigations into the crash were underway.
From Fighter Pilot to Aviation Entrepreneur
Hawkins’ life was defined by risk, adventure, and innovation. After serving as an F-16 fighter pilot in the U.S. Air Force, he went on to study at Stanford University before co-founding ICON Aircraft in 2006 with business partner Steen Strand.
The company became widely recognized for its ICON A5, a lightweight amphibious sport aircraft designed to make flying more accessible. Upon its launch, the model drew global attention for its sleek design and innovation, retailing for about $389,000.
Tributes from a Friend and Co-Founder
Steen Strand, who worked closely with Hawkins for nearly two decades, confirmed the devastating news in an emotional statement on LinkedIn.
“We lost Kirk, my close friend and partner at ICON Aircraft, to a wingsuit accident in Switzerland,” he wrote. “Kirk was the most extraordinary person I’ve ever known. He started life with nothing and climbed to the top—Clemson, Stanford, the Air Force, then Stanford again for business school.”
Strand described Hawkins as a man who embraced life fully, often leading others into daring adventures but also serving as the anchor when situations turned dangerous.
“Kirk devoured life experiences most of us would never touch. He was damn good at assessing risks, probably because he took so many. I imagine Kirk, in his final moments, knew what was coming, thought that line, and laughed one last time before the exit,” he added.
Legacy of a Risk-Taker
Known for his fearless personality, Hawkins combined a passion for aviation with a love for extreme sports. His death has sent shockwaves across both the aviation and adventure sports communities, where he was admired as both a risk-taker and visionary.
For many, his legacy will live on through ICON Aircraft and the A5 plane — a project that transformed his love for flying into a tangible innovation.
