General Aviation Serves America campaign grows by going smaller

General Aviation Serves America, the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association’s nationwide campaign to improve understanding about general aviation, is getting bigger by going smaller.

At a March 17 event held at the Planes of Fame Museum in Chino, Calif., AOPA President and CEO Craig Fuller joined San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors Chairman Gary Ovitt, Director of Airports Mike N. Williams, and other county leaders to kick off General Aviation Serves San Bernardino County.

“San Bernardino County’s leaders are an extraordinary group,” said Fuller. “Not only have they recognized that general aviation and GA airports serve everyone who lives here, whether they fly or not, they have also recognized that these airports will play a vital role in the future growth of this region. And, as they will be quick to tell you, this region is poised to grow!”

“This new partnership with AOPA will enhance the use of regional airports and expand local economic development and opportunities in our region,” added Ovitt. “It will also educate the public on the numerous positives that result from viable and dynamic local airports.”

Fuller reminded the crowd of more than 100 pilots and aviation enthusiasts how rare it is to find community leaders with such a firm grasp of the value and benefit of general aviation. He urged them to support those leaders.

“The focused leadership here in San Bernardino County is anxious to ensure that the region’s community airports are not only here to stay but thrive and prosper along with the county,” said Fuller. “And I strongly encourage you to get involved with them as they look to the future of aviation in this area and the role that community airports can and must play in development.

“Being more engaged can be as simple as staying informed about the issues that affect your flying and as involved as hosting a major public event. But in between are almost infinite opportunities.”

Fuller urged pilots to take an interested non-pilot up for a flight in a GA aircraft, be a part of the political process whether the election is local or national, volunteer to support a community airport, or even consider hosting an airport open house event.

“We can no longer take our freedom to fly for granted,” concluded Fuller. “And in San Bernardino County we are fortunate to have leaders who recognize that. But they can’t do it alone. We can support their efforts and ensure our future by showing our commitment to aviation and getting engaged!”