Aviation Organization Membership

Two significant organizations for me to be a member of are AAAE (American Association of Airport Executives) and AOPA (Aircraft Owners and Pilot Association).  With aspirations of being in airport operations and eventually a Part 121 certificate holder, it will be significant for me to be involved with an organization like AAAE to be connect with the industry.  As an aircraft owner, AOPA is an important organization for me to be a part of to help support the growth of aviation as a whole and not just general aviation.  I am currently a member of both.

From AAAE's website,  "AAAE serves its membership through results-oriented representation in Washington, D.C. and delivers a wide range of industry services and professional development opportunities including training, meetings and conferences, and a highly respected accreditation program."  AAAE exists to support airport executives in their job functions by keeping them connected with innovation and advancements at other airports.

AOPA is the worlds largest support group of GA (general aviation).  They are the collective voice for pilots and owners of aircraft other than 14 CFR part 121 owner/operators.  AOPA lobbies in Washington, D.C. against agenda items and actions affecting GA pilots and aircraft supporting the growth of GA in the United States.  There are membership benefits such as low cost insurance policies for aircraft, life, flight instructor and renters.  Members receive discounts on pilot supplies, rental cars, hotels and a number of other items.  AOPA also provides low cost legal services from aviation attorneys to it's members.  AOPA takes approximately 400,000 voices and turns them into one loud voice that is heard in Washington, D.C.


The benefit to joining any group is to be part of like minded individuals coming together to create one voice.  Both of these organizations, AAAE and AOPA are highly respected in there industries and provide benefits that an individual couldn't possibly achieve on their own.  Both provide training respective to their industries, job opportunities and up to date information on their industry.  If you are expecting to be in airport management, joining AAAE is a something that should seriously be considered.  If you intend to become an aircraft owner, life long flight instructor, charter or corporate pilot, then AOPA should be on the top of your "to do" list.  The benefits of both of these organizations will heavily out-weigh the annual cost of membership.