When the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL) held its legislative summit in New Orleans last week, AOPA was there to educate lawmakers and key staff members about what matters most to pilots, including protecting airports and keeping down the cost of flying.
“Lawmakers have to understand the needs of general aviation as well as the real economic value it generates,” said Greg Pecoraro, AOPA vice president of legislative affairs. “We attend events like this so we can deliver that information and build important relationships before there’s a crisis.”
AOPA representatives met personally with nearly 200 state legislators and staff members during the summit, July 22 through 26. Association representatives also attended the Transportation Committee meeting where NCSL updated its national aviation policy statement. AOPA had previously reviewed the policy and determined that it contained no statements harmful to general aviation.
A flight simulator at the AOPA booth gave visitors a small taste of the fun of flying.
“The flight simulator was a great way to show legislators the thrill of flying and to discuss the importance of aviation to their community,” said Pecoraro.
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