SAFE executive director David St. George retires

SAFE, founded in 2009, focuses on aviation education and safety. St. George first became involved with the organization as an early member and later chaired SAFE's board of directors in 2015 before assuming the executive director role in 2018. During his tenure, SAFE's membership grew to more than 8,000 aviation educators, according to the organization.

In a message to members, St. George described his departure as "bittersweet" and encouraged future leadership to continue advancing SAFE's mission of professionalism and excellence in aviation education.

The SAFE board of directors said it is actively conducting a search for a new executive director. No successor or interim leader has been named. St. George is expected to remain involved with the organization as a volunteer.

SAFE is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization representing aviation educators, including certificated flight instructors and designated pilot examiners, and works with industry partners and the FAA to promote safety and professionalism.