Ultralights Hall of Fame

Nomination Form

2021 EAA Ultralights Hall of Fame Inductee

Gene Borne

Gene “Bever” Borne’s ultralight journey started in late 1976 in a foot-launched Quicksilver with an 8-hp engine. The motorized hang glider was love at first flight. He soon became a premiere dealer for the Eipper-Formance Company, which is when ultralight aviation truly became his passion. After acquiring most of the U.S. Hang Gliding Association pilot and instructor ratings, Bever focused on teaching, eventually developing a solo training system. He was active in the formation of Part 103 and the light-sport aircraft process.

To date he has logged more than 5,000 hours as an instructor in ultralight-type aircraft and is a current GA pilot rated for single engine land and sea. He’s active on numerous aviation boards and committees promoting aviation safety and ultralight sport preservation. In 2008 the FAA named him a designated airworthiness representative, and in 2015, he purchased the assets of Quicksilver Aircraft. Bever is grateful for the help and support of his wife and partner of 46 years, Kim. Together they operate Air-Tech Inc., an ultralight and lightplane manufacturing company dedicated to supporting ultralight aviation. Their facility is located on the Port of South Louisiana Executive Regional Airport in Reserve, Louisiana.