Monument to Igor Sikorsky

Monument to the World-Renowned Aircraft Designer

History

Installed: August 31, 2019

Location: Kyiv

Material: Bronze, granite

International Airport

The idea of creating a monument to Igor Sikorsky originated from the Mayor of Kyiv, Vitali Klitschko. This idea was supported by the management of the Kyiv International Airport named after Sikorsky. To bring the project to life, they approached the well-known Kyiv-based sculptor Volodymyr Zhurovel.

Zhurovel developed several sketches, from which the best design was selected. Extensive research on Igor Sikorsky’s life and achievements was conducted, forming the foundation for the final image of the aviation pioneer. The sculpture of Sikorsky stands on a pedestal shaped like a hemisphere with a stylized world map. The figure is supported at a single point, giving the impression of taking off from the ground.

Since Sikorsky was the designer of the world’s first helicopter, he is depicted holding a prototype of his creation. The sculpture is kinetic: during strong gusts of wind, the helicopter blades rotate.

"Today, on Ukrainian Aviation Day, we take another step to honor the memory of a remarkable Kyiv native. We unveil a monument to the world-renowned aircraft designer Igor Sikorsky. Now, he will welcome Kyiv residents and guests arriving in the capital by air," said Klitschko.

Authors: Sculptor-Vladimir Zhuravel, architect-Oleg Selivanov, graphic designer-Stanislav Topolsky