Tragic Wingsuit Accident Claims the Life of ICON Aircraft Co-founder in Swiss Alps
Kirk Hawkins, aged 58, the co-founder of ICON Aircraft and a former U.S. Air Force F-16 pilot, tragically lost his life on August 19, 2025, during a wingsuit jump in the Swiss Alps. Hawkins, along with three others, jumped from a helicopter near the iconic Eiger summit. Unfortunately, he collided with trees and crashed to the ground near Schüssellouwinegraben.
The aviation entrepreneur co-founded ICON Aircraft in 2006 with Steen Strand, and they were responsible for creating the amphibious A5 light sport aircraft. Known for his daredevil spirit and risk-taking nature, Hawkins was forced to step down from his CEO position in 2018. At the time of his death, he was involved in ongoing bankruptcy litigation.
“Kirk was the most extraordinary person I’ve ever known,” said his business partner Strand. He highlighted Hawkins’ journey from humble beginnings to becoming a Stanford graduate, an Air Force pilot, and an aviation innovator. The Swiss police are currently investigating the fatal accident.
Source: https://generalaviationnews.com/2025/08/21/icon-founder-dies-in-wingsuit-accident/