Big shoes

For the past five years, the opening luncheon at AOPA Expo has begun with a slide show of some of the most gorgeous, yet awe-inspiring photography of weather phenomena. The reason? The luncheon is hosted by DTC DUAT, provider of flight planning and weather services to the nation’s general aviation pilots.

But this year, DTC DUAT President Bill Young honored retiring AOPA President Phil Boyer, saying, “Phil Boyer will be remembered as one of the best presidents AOPA ever had.”

He presented Boyer a framed cover of the first AOPA Pilot magazine under Boyer’s tenure as publisher and a copy of his first “President’s Position,” which appeared in that issue—January 1991.

“Phil leaves a very big pair of shoes to fill at AOPA’s front door at Frederick when he leaves. He is a class act and a tough act to follow,” said Young.

Incoming AOPA President Craig Fuller, who will take the helm of the organization on Jan. 1, was among those who stood for the standing ovation honoring Boyer. Fuller has held top positions in the White House, at a national trade association, a Fortune 50 company, and in global consulting and public affairs firms. He is a committed 40-year pilot, aircraft owner, and AOPA member.