When dealing with local issues at local airports, closed-door meetings in Washington, D.C., just won’t cut it. For airport-specific concerns and successes, you have to go out to that airport and see for yourself or speak with local members who are familiar with what is occurring at their airport.
That’s exactly what AOPA did at a meeting of the Arizona Safety Advisory Group (ASAG) in Phoenix, Ariz., last week.
AOPA Vice President of Local Airport Advocacy Bill Dunn and Western Regional Representative Stacy Howard met with Airport Support Network volunteers to discuss concerns relating to a recent mid-air collision in the area, and issues relating to flight training and skydiving activities. Howard also holds this year’s ASAG presidency.
“When AOPA goes to members, pilots, and local airfields, we get inside information,” said Dunn. “Without our Airport Support Network volunteers relaying this information to us, our mission to protect airports is more difficult.”
At the ASAG awards banquet, awards were given to Arizona’s leaders in maintenance, avionics, and flight instruction. These winners will go to the FAA regional office for regional competitions.
If keeping tabs on your local airport is important to you, check to see if your airport needs its own ASN volunteer. You can make a difference!
