AOPA Expo just days away

AOPA Expo just days away

AOPA Expo kicks off Thursday in Tampa, Florida, and the long-term weather forecast looks terrific.

AOPA has pulled out all the stops this year, including a number of firsts that start with bringing a cabinet-level government official to Expo to talk in person to members. U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Norman Mineta will speak and answer members' questions during Thursday morning's general session at 9 a.m. in the Tampa Convention Center ballroom.

It is also the first time certified light sport aircraft (LSA) will be on display.

AOPA's revamped aircraft display at Peter O. Knight Airport will include a special section devoted to 16 LSAs. Plus there will be interactive pilot maintenance workshops and demonstration flights. (Demo flights must be arranged with the aircraft companies prior to Expo.)

A new selection of seminars has been added, too. Technology seminars will be right up any aviation gadget guru's alley. And those who aren't technologically savvy will learn some handy tricks to make operating their GPS or other equipment less daunting.

Comparison shop the newest avionics in the exhibit hall where you'll find more than 500 exhibit booths offering everything a GA pilot could want. If you don't yet have an airplane to put those great new avionics in, you can buy that, too. And of course you can find financing to help you fulfill your flying dreams. A new airplane or panel still outside this year's budget? How about a new headset, flight bag, or pilot log? You'll find it all in the exhibit hall at AOPA Expo 2005.

If you plan to fly in to AOPA Expo, you can choose among three great airports with upgraded facilities: Vandenberg, Tampa International, and Peter O. Knight. Be sure to read the arrival procedures before you fly.

See you there!

Updated: October 31, 2005, 1:34 p.m. EST