"Our hope is that the Senate will be able to reach agreement on this crucial legislation and pass a bill that funds the FAA, including the Airport Improvement Program and air traffic control modernization, and does so using the current tax-based funding system," Boyer said.
AOPA Expo 2008: Explore new horizons
AOPA Expo will be returning to San Jose, California, November 6 through 8. The exhibit hall and aircraft display will showcase everything from new aircraft and avionics to headsets, gear, and more.
Come early for the General Sessions each morning, where AOPA executives and industry leaders will address the hottest aviation issues. Plan to attend some of the many educational sessions, with topics on ownership, medical, proficiency and safety, and destination flying.
Gather with old and new acquaintances at the opening luncheon, welcome reception, Friday night party, and closing banquet. Explore new horizons at AOPA Expo 2008 to enhance your aviation knowledge and take advantage of everything San Jose has to offer. Visit AOPA Online for more information.
AOPA to get a say in UAV certification standards
AOPA has been asked to participate on the FAA's aviation rulemaking committee to help develop standards for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).
The committee will study hazard and safety risks, registration process, pilot training requirements, economic impact, international harmonization, and requirements for system certification and continuing airworthiness, among other topics.
"AOPA wants UAVs to be integrated seamlessly into the National Airspace System so that there isn't a negative impact on general aviation," said Rob Hackman, AOPA senior director of regulatory affairs, who will represent the association on the committee.
Use new IFR flight plans for GPS arrivals, departures at large airports
If you plan to file an instrument flight plan and receive a clearance to use RNAV standard instrument departures or standard terminal arrival routes (SIDs/STARs), you'll need to use the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) flight plan form beginning June 29.
"SIDs and STARs typically are associated with the largest air carrier airports," said Melissa Rudinger, AOPA vice president of regulatory affairs. "Most AOPA members will not be affected by this change."
Using the ICAO flight plan also makes available 275 unpublished RNAV arrival and departure routes. Pilots flying under visual flight rules (VFR), or flying IFR using RNAV for en route navigation, can still use the FAA's domestic flight plan form.
Carry the card that pays you to support GA
Thousands of AOPA members carry the AOPA WorldPoints credit card from Bank of America. They already know that by carrying and using the card, they earn their choice of rewards, keep AOPA dues low, and keep general aviation strong.
The AOPA WorldPoints credit card gives you reward points with every purchase that can use for brand-name merchandise, travel with no blackout dates, cash, or gift cards. And it allows you to earn double points for most aviation purchases and returns valuable revenue to AOPA at no cost to you. To apply for a card, visit AOPA Online.
Don't let T-storms take you by surprise
You don't need much experience to know that thunderstorms can pack a knockout punch, and you shouldn't go near one when you're flying. When you visit the AOPA Air Safety Foundation's thunderstorm awareness Web page, you'll find a wealth of free resources aimed at helping you stay safe when convective activity is in the forecast. In addition to a printable quick reference card you can carry in your flight bag, you'll find a fact-packed Safety Advisor on ATC weather avoidance services, as well as a great interactive course, Weather Wise: Thunderstorms and ATC. It's a great way to get in shape for one of the biggest weather challenges you're likely to face.
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