CALDWELL — The Caldwell Airport Commission has recommended the Caldwell Industrial Airport be renamed in honor of fallen pilot Gary Hubler.

If the city accepts the recommendation, the Caldwell Industrial Airport will be known as the Caldwell Hubler Memorial Airport.

Five-time defending champion Hubler, 51, of Caldwell, was killed in a crash during September’s Reno National Championship Air Races.

Hubler was an experienced pilot with a long history as a freight pilot, crop duster, and flying service operator. His family is deeply involved in local aviation, running a crop-dusting business and other aircraft-related operations from an airfield just southwest of Middleton along the Boise River.

Members of the commission and others testifying spoke of Hubler’s contributions to the local aviation community as well as his shining character. Several pilots said they would have stopped flying after an accident or other bad experience if not for Hubler’s support and encouragement.

The recommendation was presented to Mayor Garret Nancolas and the City Council at a workshop before Monday night’s regular council meeting.