Iris Cummings Critchell

Dec. 21, 1920–Jan. 24, 2025

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Memories of Iris

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Terry London Rinehart

Family friend

From as far back as I can remember, Iris has been a guiding light in my life—a mentor, a pioneer, and a cherished family friend. Her story is one of extraordinary achievement, unwavering dedication, and an enduring passion for aviation and education.
Her fascination with flight led her to the University of Southern California’s Civilian Pilot Training Program in 1939, where she became the first woman to graduate from the Advanced Acrobatics course in 1940.
During World War II, Iris served with distinction as a member of the Women Air Force Service Pilots (WASP), ferrying aircraft such as the P-38, P-51, and P-61 Black Widow for the 6th Ferrying Group at Long Beach, California. Her squadron commander was my mother, Barbara Erickson London, and together they forged a bond that extended beyond the war.
After the war, Iris and my mother and other women aviators, founded the Long Beach Chapter of the Ninety-Nines, an organization dedicated to supporting women pilots. Their collaboration extended to the All Women’s Transcontinental Air Race, affectionately known as the Powder Puff Derby, where they served on the Board of Directors, ensuring the race’s success year after year.
Iris’s commitment to aviation education was unparalleled. In 1962, she and her husband, Howard “Critch” Critchell, established the Bates Aeronautics Program at Harvey Mudd College. They nurtured countless students, some of whom would go on to become astronauts, until the program’s conclusion in 1990.
I had the privilege of following in Critch’s footsteps, joining Western Airlines as a pilot in 1976 and eventually retiring as a 767 Captain for Delta Airlines after its merger with Western in 1987. Iris and her family have been a profound influence on my life, embodying the spirit of perseverance and excellence.
Iris’s accolades are numerous: she was inducted into the National Flight Instructors Hall of Fame in 2000, received the FAA’s Wright Brothers Master Pilot Award in 2006, and was honored with the Nile Gold Medal by the Fédération Aéronautique Internationale in 2007.
Her legacy is one of inspiration, mentorship, and trailblazing achievements. Iris passed away on January 24, 2025, in Claremont, California, at the age of 104, leaving behind a world significantly enriched by her contributions.
Iris, you will be deeply missed by me and all who had the honor of knowing you. Your indomitable spirit and dedication to aviation continue to inspire generations.
Blue skies and tailwinds.
Terry London Rinehart

Josh Berman ’95

Barnstormers, and passed my Private Pilot flight test with her :)

Iris was my Ground School instructor as part of Barnstormers, and she took me for my very first instructional flight in 1992 – a flight I’m very proud to have logged in my “Bates Aeronautics Program” Logbook 🙂 After switching to another instructor for my finish-up, I then passed my Private Pilot flight test with her in December, 1993. It took me another 14 years to fill up that Bates logbook. I treasure my memories of flying with her, and am grateful for the doors that subsequently opened to me in aviation, thanks to the start she gave me.

Jeff Eid ’81

Bates Aero class of '79-'80

While Critch was my primary flight instructor in 42G, Mrs. C was my ground school instructor and check pilot usually in 62Q. She was incredible in so many respects, and her enthusiasm for life and hard work had an indelible impact on me. I will always value her friendship, her wisdom, her passion, and her care for others and availability to talk when needed. Such an amazing woman was a beautiful gift to so many individuals, and to the world. With deep gratitude, what a privilege and joy it was to study under her and to know her as instructor, mentor, and friend. God bless you Iris!