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AOPA Unveils Free Youth Membership program

Frederick, MD – The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) is expanding its membership by adding a new youth membership category targeting students aged 13 through 18.AOPA AV8RS was created as part of an ongoing effort by AOPA to help develop a new generation of pilots and members. The goal is to raise awareness of aviation and flight through education, engagement, and cultivation.

“A strong and growing pilot population is vital to the future of our industry. Without pilots, general aviation cannot exist. But it takes a village to nurture and support the next generation of pilots. As such, we recognize the importance of working closely with other aviation organizations to share and combine resources in order to meet our respective objectives,” said Michelle Peterson, vice president of membership marketing.

The new membership category is designed to make an early connection with young people and continues to engage them throughout their pilot life cycle.  It will provide teens with ongoing experiences and resources that will involve and engage them with AOPA for years to come. “Having a viable, robust youth membership program that introduces teens to the world of aviation is a critical part of AOPA’s mission of promoting the popularity of flight in general aviation aircraft.” said Lauren Otto, membership development program manager.

The membership is offered to teens at no cost thanks to the generous contributions of AOPA members and other donations. Benefits to AOPA AV8RS include a digital subscription to Flight Training magazine, opportunities to join AOPA AV8RS online social communities through Facebook, Twitter, Tumblr, and YouTube, access to a dedicated blog and special content at www.aopa.org/av8rs, chances to win scholarships and much more.

To refer a teen to AOPA AV8RS, go to www.aopa.org/av8rs . To help subsidize the cost of an AOPA AV8R membership, please visit www.aopafoundation.org/donateav8rs.

- AOPA -

12-3-005

July 27, 2012