The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association of Namibia has joined the International Council of Aircraft Owners and Pilot Associations (IAOPA) as its sixty-ninth member worldwide and seventh in Africa. With a size slightly more than half the size of Alaska and a population of 2.1 million people, Namibia is one of the least densely populated countries in the world. The sheer size of the country and popularity as a destination for international tourism makes flying an indispensable mode of transport in Namibia, especially via general aviation.
In a letter welcoming AOPA Namibia, AOPA and IAOPA President Craig Fuller wrote, “It gives me great pleasure to inform you that the Board of the International Council of Aircraft Owner and Pilot Associations (IAOPA) has approved full membership of AOPA Namibia. I look forward to working with you in the years to come for the improvement and advancement of general aviation worldwide.”
AOPA Namibia President Reinhard Gärtner responded, "AOPA-Namibia’s affiliation with IAOPA is indeed good news for the country’s aviation industry and its stakeholders. Coinciding with our celebrations this week of Namibia’s 21st year of independence, this can hardly be a more promising omen for the aviation fraternity in Namibia and hopefully for International AOPA!”
Gärtner added that being part of an international organization is important not only to establish and promote local interests in aviation, but also to work together with other countries to overcome the ever-increasing and threatening hurdles facing the aviation industry, locally, and on an international level.
IAOPA represents the interests of AOPA affiliates all over the world, comprising more than 470,000 general aviation and aerial work pilots and aircraft operators. The council was formed in 1962 to provide a voice for general aviation in world aviation forums.
