Goal Is To Boost Aviation Participation

The EAA and Balloon Federation of America (BFA) recently announced a memorandum of understanding that expands the organizations’ joint efforts to bring the possibilities of flight to more people.

The agreement formalizes a relationship between the organizations as they promote and encourage flying activities. It will also include initiatives ranging from membership growth and communications to advocacy and youth activities.

“There is a common passion for flight that connects BFA and EAA, with our organizations sharing many goals and visions,” said Jack J. Pelton, EAA CEO and Chairman of the Board. “This memo of understanding sets the stage of the next step of cooperation between our associations, as we must work together to sustain and grow interest in all forms of aviation.”

The new memo of understanding also outlines specific areas where EAA and BFA will work together. That includes web and publications presence, and possibilities of joint activities between EAA chapters and BFA’s local clubs. It also encompasses visibility at major events, including EAA AirVenture Oshkosh and the BFA convention.

“The BFA and its members are excited to explore a closer partnership with the EAA and begin work on how both organizations will, in a mutual way, promote and increase aviation participation across all age groups,” said Cheri White, BFA president. “We share so many fundamental principles that working together will benefit all our members and recreational aviation overall. We’re excited to build a close relationship with our friends within EAA.”

EAA and BFA will create a joint working group to further explore possibilities for joint activities and programs that could inspire youth and adults to further explore ways to get involved in model aviation or recreational flying. The agreement also provides for increased visibility of each organization in the other’s outreach and communications channels.

(Source: Joint news release)

FMI: www.BFA.net, www.eaa.org