Paul Tissandier (born 19 February 1881, died 11 March 1945) was a French aviator.
Tissandier was the son of aviator Gaston Tissandier and nephew of Albert Tissandier, Gaston's brother.
Tissandier began his flying career as a hot air balloon pilot and later moved to airships and finally to aircraft[1]. He was a pilot-pupil of Wilbur Wright[2]. Together with Count Charles de Lambert, he was involved in the construction of hydro-gliders.
The Aero Club Paul Tissandier based at the Saint-Cyr-l'École airfield was named in his honour[3].
Perpetual international awards established in 1952 by FAI in memory of Paul Tissandier, a pioneer French aviator, Treasurer of the FAI from its foundation to 1919, and its Secretary General from 1919 to 1945. As stated on the Diplomas, they are awarded to those persons who have served the cause of aviation and private and sporting aviation in particular, by their work, initiative, devotion or in any other way. Each Aero club which is a member of FAI may recommend a number of deserving candidates for these Diplomas each year; the U.S. is allowed three. The recipients are confirmed by the FAI Administrative Council and publicly announced and the Diplomas are awarded at the annual FAI General Conference.
Tissandier served as Secretary General of the Fédération Aéronautique Internationale (FAI) from 1919 to 1945. In 1952 the FAI established the Paul Tissandier Diploma; awarded to those who have served the cause of Aviation in general and Sporting Aviation in particular[4].
Notable recipients include: