Luke Wippler Promises Increased Visibility Of Leadership At Events
Luke Wippler, new chairman of the board of trustees for the Aircraft Owner and Pilots Association (AOPA), told a membership town hall at SUN ’n FUN that he is committed to increased visibility of AOPA leadership at events around the country.
“We need a strong AOPA and every member matters. We will be showing up and leading differently,” Wippler told the tent full of members at the town hall. “It means a lot to be part of this organization and I will push initiatives and objectives. I am ready to get to work for you.”
The tone of the meeting was very different than the contentious town hall meeting in February at the Buckeye Air Fair in Arizona. Many members were upset at the firing of previous AOPA President Darren Pleasance and made their voices heard about the conduct of the board and communication with members.
The SUN ’n FUN town hall was slightly smaller and the tone very different than in Arizona. Members seemed satisfied with the answers provided by Wippler. Also, Katie Pribyl and Jill Baker, the two acting co-presidents, presented updates on airspace and membership.
Wippler said the board is setting up a search for a new president and chief executive officer for AOPA to replace Pleasance. He said there is a board committee in charge of the search and “we are assessing a lot of very strong candidates.” He said there is no timeline yet for naming a new president. The next major board meeting is May 12 at AOPA headquarters in Frederick, Md.
Going forward, Wippler said the board’s strategic priorities are to grow the pilot population and AOPA membership, make flying more affordable, and focus on high schools, rusty pilots and flying clubs.
He said AOPA plans to be the most effective general aviation advocacy group in both Washington, D.C. and state capitols.
FMI: www.aopa.org
