Published in Midwest Flyer Magazine October/November 2022 Digital Issue
The Aircraft Owners & Pilots Association (AOPA) is introducing the AOPA Alliance program with the Antique Airplane Association (AAA). Niche aviation associations and type clubs, such as AAA, are a critical part of the GA fabric. While they are among the most avid aviation groups, AAA (and other such groups) may be unknown to many pilots and aircraft owners who would benefit from their educational programs and sense of community.
The AOPA Alliance program will support these organizations through a dedicated webpage on aopa.org and exposure in AOPA print, online, and video media channels. AOPA allied organizations will, in turn, educate their members about AOPA’s mission and initiatives through their websites, channels, and events.
Based at Antique Airfield in Blakesburg, Iowa, AAA is the world’s oldest organization dedicated to antique and classic aviation. Formed in 1953 by Robert L. Taylor, and currently run by his son, Brent Taylor, its mission is to help the owners, restorers, and pilots of antique and classic aircraft to “keep the antiques flying.” The association comprises 3,500 members across the United States, who fly a range of vintage and classic aircraft dating from the 1920s through the 1950s.
Each Labor Day weekend, members gather at the annual AAA/APM Invitational Fly-in held at Antique Airfield.
“While different organizations may have different goals and memberships, all of GA needs to come together and protect our shared passion for aviation and our collective freedom to fly,” said AOPA President Mark Baker. “Members of the Antique Airplane Association are among the most passionate aviators we know and share many values with AOPA. This is a great fit, and we look forward to such partnerships with other organizations.”
“When AOPA began in 1939, most of the airplanes viewed today as antique or classic aircraft were then current production airplanes,” said Taylor. “This affiliation will bridge that past with the present for both organizations. This opportunity helps our respective organizations attract new members.”
To inquire about your organization becoming an AOPA allied organization, contact AOPA.
