Future opportunities
By Christopher Cooper
As I reflect on the advancements in the aviation industry that occurred in 2022, the growth and development of new and emerging technologies into the National Airspace System continues to be impressive, including increased commercial space launches, further development of eVTOL aircraft and autonomous flight, and routine beyond visual line of sight drone operations.
These advancements continue to be a reminder of the human ingenuity and dedication seen since the first years of human flight. Regardless of your opinions of new and emerging technologies in the National Airspace System, the fact is that they are an important (and growing) part of the entire aviation industry, with the potential to bring positive opportunities to the general aviation community. For example, the demand for lower weight, power, and sized technologies necessary for certain drone operations can provide further opportunities for voluntary usage of low-cost and portable ADS-B units and non-required safety enhancing equipment. In addition to technology, how the FAA approaches the certification of new entrant aircraft, and its pilots, could provide opportunities for more efficient and lower cost processes of certifying general aviation aircraft and its pilots in the future.
However, in addition to the opportunities, there are challenges that will face general aviation (see “Give Way to the Drone: When Right of Way Isn’t Always Right,” July 2022 AOPA Pilot). AOPA will continue advocating on behalf of the general aviation community through its leadership on government- and industry-led groups, such as the Advanced Aviation Advisory Committee and the Drone Safety Team, to help resolve these challenges. Confronting and resolving these challenges will not only ensure the safe integration of new and emerging technologies into the National Airspace System, but may also provide opportunities to the general aviation community in the future.
Christopher Cooper is AOPA Senior Director, Regulatory Affairs
On the front lines
Airport support groups are a force for good
By Tom Chandler
AOPA Airport Support Network volunteers in my region hear this from me often: “The best way to protect your airport is to make it a vibrant and visible part of the community.” A valuable step in that direction is to form a local airport support group. Successful airport groups bring together like-minded people who genuinely want to help their airport thrive. In addition to the fun social aspect, the best groups become a positive voice for general aviation at airport board meetings, helping with fly-ins and “airport day” events, and giving airport tours to school groups. The possibilities are endless.
Once established as a force for good at the airport, many groups become valued team members in helping the airport sponsor direct the trajectory of the airport’s future. There are many stellar examples, including Friends of South Grand Lake Regional Airport, the Fairbanks General Aviation Association, and Torrance Airport Association.
Airport groups range from formal, nonprofit organizations to simple social groups. All are valuable.
To learn how to form an airport support group at your airport, or to become an AOPA Airport Support Network Volunteer, visit aopa.org/asn, or contact the AOPA Pilot Information Center at 800-USA-AOPA.
Tom Chandler is the AOPA Central Southwest Regional Manager
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