Harry Hillaker

Harry James Hillaker (9 May 1919 – 8 February 2009) was an American aeronautical engineer, who is credited as the main designer and originator of the F-16 Fighting Falcon aircraft.

Biography
In 1919, Hillaker was born in Flint, Michigan, attending Flint Northern High School.

In 1941, Hillaker graduated with a degree in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Michigan (Flint), where he had studied Aeronautical Engineering.

Consolidated Aircraft
In 1941, Hillaker began his career by starting at Consolidated Aircraft in San Diego. Consolidated would eventually become General Dynamics.

Hillaker worked on the Convair B-58 Hustler.

Marriage
On 2 October 1943, Hillaker married. He would go on to have six children with his wife, who died in 2017.

General Dynamics
Hillaker was the chief project engineer for the F-16 aircraft, overseeing the testing of the prototype aircraft, to fulfil the needs of the Lightweight Fighter program. The prototype started as the General Dynamics Model 401, to become the YF-16, beginning around 1971.

On 8 January 1974, the prototype arrived at Edwards Air Force Base in California. It took to the air on 2 February 1974, flown by Phil Oestricher.

In January 1975, the YF-16 had been selected for the Lightweight Fighter program.

In 1985, Hillaker retired.

Death
On 8 February 2009, a Sunday, Hillaker died in Texas.