James A. Viola has officially assumed the role of president and CEO of the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA).
Viola is GAMA’s sixth president and CEO since its founding, 55 years ago, in 1970.
He replaces Pete Bunce, who retired after 20 years of leading the organization.
“It is a privilege and an honor to be able to lead such an impactful global organization that is known for the great work it does on behalf of the general aviation industry,” Viola said. “I look forward to working with our membership to continue to advocate for policies and regulations that allow for the industry to grow, flourish, and advance innovation.
“While this is an exciting time for our industry, there is still a lot of work to be done to meet new and ongoing challenges,” he continued. “It is important that we continue to illustrate the robust opportunities and economic and societal benefits that our industry provides around the world. Under my leadership, I plan for GAMA to provide valuable thought leadership and continue to be a commanding and astute voice for the good of its membership and the entire industry.”
Viola comes to GAMA from Vertical Aviation International (VAI), where he served as president and CEO since 2020. Viola led VAI in representing the interests of the global helicopter industry and other vertical aviation stakeholders. Additionally, he spearheaded the association’s rebranding from Helicopter Association International (HAI) to VAI, which widened the association’s focus to encompass the expansion and technological evolution occurring in vertical aviation.
Prior to VAI, Viola spent over a decade at the FAA. His last role at the agency was Director of General Aviation Safety Assurance, where he was responsible for maintaining consistency and standardization in the application of safety oversight activities for the general aviation community.
Additionally, Viola spent over two decades as a U.S. Army aviator, achieving the rank of Colonel.
In addition to his more than 35 years of aviation experience, Viola holds several Master’s degrees, including one in Strategic Studies from the U.S. Army War College in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, and one in International Relations from Auburn University in Montgomery, Alabama.
Viola is an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) and Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) for helicopters and airplanes and has accumulated more than 8,000 flight hours, including 1,100 with night-vision goggles.
For more information: GAMA.aero
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