Over the past few days, the AOPA Board of Trustees has received many calls and emails following our announcement that we are initiating a search for a new CEO. We appreciate members taking the time to share their perspectives.
As we said in our announcement, we are grateful for former CEO Darren Pleasance’s contributions to AOPA, his energy and his commitment to serving pilots and aircraft owners. We also recognized his important efforts to engage with AOPA members across the country.
For 87 years, AOPA has continued to build and evolve to meet the needs of the general aviation community in an increasingly complex operating and regulatory environment. The Board’s decision to begin a search for new executive leadership was guided by our responsibility to ensure AOPA remains a strong, effective advocate for pilots and aircraft owners—today and well into the future.
Our search process to identify a new CEO will focus on finding a senior executive who can build on AOPA’s strengths, accelerate progress at the grassroots level, strengthen our voice with government and regulatory bodies, and improve operational performance. This leader will help grow our membership, attract a new generation of pilots and advance pilot training. Our next CEO also will work to preserve access to airspace, keep aviation safe and protect general aviation airports nationwide. We are seeking a candidate with proven leadership experience, strong financial and operational discipline, a clear passion for aviation and a commitment to supporting our dedicated staff.
Our Board remains firmly focused on strong fiduciary oversight and organizational stability. Our commitment is to make AOPA work as effectively as possible for all members.
We understand that leadership transitions can prompt strong reactions, particularly in an organization with such a loyal and engaged membership. We are confident that our deliberate and thoughtful approach to leadership succession is the right course for AOPA.
AOPA remains a vital organization with an essential mission and a strong future. We appreciate your engagement, your feedback, and your continued support as we move forward united in our shared commitment to safer, freer skies.
Sincerely,
Jim Hauslein
Chairman, AOPA Board of Trustees