Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association
The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) is a Frederick, Maryland-based American non-profit political organization that advocates for general aviation. AOPA's membership consists mainly of general aviation pilots in the United States. AOPA exists to serve the interests of its members as aircraft owners and pilots and to promote the economy, safety, utility, and popularity of flight in general aviation aircraft.
| Abbreviation | AOPA |
|---|---|
| Formation | 1939 |
| Founders | P.T. Sharples |
| Type | Not for profit |
| Purpose | Aviation advocacy |
| Headquarters | Frederick, Maryland, United States |
Area served | Worldwide |
Membership (2012) | 384,915 |
Chairman of the Board | Bill Trimble III (2005) |
Vice Chairman of the Board | Darrell Crate (February 2014) |
President & CEO | Mark Baker (September 6, 2013) |
| Website | aopa.org |
With 384,915 members in 2012, AOPA is the largest aviation association in the world, although it had decreased in membership from 414,224 in 2010, a loss of 7% in two years. AOPA is affiliated with other similar organizations in other countries through membership in the International Council of Aircraft Owner and Pilot Associations (IAOPA). In 2015, AOPA was inducted into the International Air & Space Hall of Fame at the San Diego Air & Space Museum.