Shaping aviation's future

Making your final approach to Peter O. Knight Airport, the broad panorama of Tampa Bay comes into full view with the turquoise water, city skyline, and convention center spread before you.

AOPA’s Aviation Summit takes place at a spectacular flying location with amazing exhibits and attractions the whole family can enjoy. It also provides AOPA members an unmatched opportunity to exchange ideas with the key industry and government leaders whose decisions are shaping general aviation’s future at a pivotal time in our history. Many of the world’s top aircraft and avionics manufacturers, as well as FAA and TSA policy makers, will take part in the three-day conference, and AOPA members will have a rare chance to influence the debate on vital topics such as user fees, airport security, and the future air traffic control system—all of which directly affect our freedom to fly.

“AOPA’s Aviation Summit is the central meeting place where all the important issues facing GA can be discussed openly and with candor with the decision makers themselves,” said AOPA President Craig Fuller. “AOPA Summit will be GA’s epicenter. AOPA members can ensure our voices are heard by top policy makers—and our families and friends can have a great time at a magnificent destination.”

A new, interactive format

Summit’s format will allow pilots more interaction than ever with industry and government leaders. Top aviation officials will face the questions that are most important to pilots in public forums, and for the first time, they will stand for interviews on an open stage in the main exhibit hall.

The exhibits at the convention center will showcase the latest aviation products including developmental aircraft, avionics, flight simulators, portable GPS units, flight-planning software, and smart phone applications. Visitors will get a first look at these exciting products and give designers immediate feedback.

“AOPA’s Aviation Summit is an active, hands-on experience,” Fuller said. “It pulls together pilots, aircraft owners, aviation businesses, and policy makers. AOPA members can touch and test cutting-edge aircraft and avionics, interact with key decision makers, and share with them our ideas and our commitment to protect the freedom to fly.”

Members can attend free and informative seminars led by aviation experts on subjects such as flight safety, fly-in destinations, GPS tips and tricks, engine operation, aircraft maintenance, future fuels, single-pilot IFR, weather, and flying techniques.

In collaboration with Women in Aviation International, AOPA Summit will feature an all-new “women’s wing” area and host events for female pilots and discuss opportunities in the aviation industry.

Peter O. Knight Airport, with its gorgeous marina backdrop, will host a stunning variety of new aircraft displays. AOPA will provide frequent and easy transportation between the airport and exhibit hall. Also, AOPA will sponsor a “community day” at the airport with food, games, and activities—including flight simulators and remote-control model demonstrations—designed to capture the imaginations of children. Vintage aircraft from 1939, celebrating the seventieth anniversary of AOPA’s founding, will be on display, along with light sport aircraft, seaplanes, and U.S. Coast Guard fixed- and rotary-wing aircraft. The Saturday event is designed to reach beyond the traditional aviation audience, draw in potential future pilots, and strengthen the bonds between Tampa residents and their airport jewel.

Exceptional value and special events

AOPA’s Aviation Summit also will provide exceptional value to those who attend.

The welcome reception—formerly a paid event—is free this year. The package price for the entire Aviation Summit has been reduced, and Friday-night partygoers will pay $15 less than before to attend a lively, AOPA-only event at the nearby Florida Aquarium which includes food and live music. Other discounts will be available to families with children.

Nonpilots who attend AOPA’s Aviation Summit will be able to choose from a broad array of activities, including visits to the nearby aquarium, dolphin cruises, sport fishing, Tampa’s historic district, artistic Ybor City, Cuban cuisine, and the peerless Columbia restaurant. Other well-known Florida attractions such as Fantasy of Flight, Busch Gardens, SeaWorld, and Walt Disney World are within easy driving distance.

AOPA’s Aviation Summit also provides many opportunities to renew acquaintances, form new friendships, and make business contacts. A free “Meet and Mingle” session will be held at the exhibit hall on Thursday, and everyone who attends will be able to socialize, meet exhibitors, and get a close-up look at new products in a relaxed, casual atmosphere.

Lunch on Friday will showcase keynote speakers. And Saturday’s Dinner on the Riverwalk will salute AOPA’s proud heritage and look to the future in an inviting location along the winding shores of the Hillsborough River. Cigar rollers and live music will infuse the entire convention with the flavor of Tampa and its colorful traditions.

The first AOPA Aviation Summit takes place during AOPA’s seventieth anniversary year. It’s an important milestone, but also a time for AOPA members to rededicate themselves to protecting and expanding the freedoms the organization’s founders cherished, and which we continue to hold dear.

“Come and participate in AOPA’s historic first Aviation Summit,” Fuller said. “Let’s take control of our future and our fate.”