More than 70 GA aircraft on display at AOPA Expo 2004

General aviation is the largest segment of the aviation industry, with a dizzying array of aircraft. More than 70 examples of GA's broad range, from two-seat training aircraft to light business jets, will be on display at Long Beach Airport as part of the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association's AOPA Expo 2004, October 21-23.

"AOPA Expo offers fascinating, educational seminars, opportunities to hear directly from high-ranking government officials who affect aviation policy, and an exhibit hall full of the latest in avionics and aviation-related products," said AOPA President Phil Boyer. "But let's face it, we're plane people, and it's the planes that are the real draw."

The static display area is at Airflite Aviation Services at Long Beach Airport, just a short, free shuttle bus ride from the Long Beach Convention Center, where the exhibit hall and seminars will be.

The centerpiece of this year's static display is the grand prize in AOPA's 2004 Win-A-Twin Sweepstakes, a completely refurbished, better-than-new 1965 Piper Twin Comanche. The aircraft features a stunning new paint scheme, a luxurious new interior, and a panel that will make the winner the envy of everyone at the local airport. For a complete look at all the work done, visit the Web page.

The other aircraft on display represent a wide array of manufacturers: Adam, ATG, Aviat, Bombardier, Cessna, Cirrus, Diamond, EADS Socata, Epic, Extra, Lancair, Maule, Mooney, Pilatus, New Piper, Raytheon (maker of Beechcraft aircraft), Stemme, Symphony, and Twin Commander.

In addition, Lancair will have on display aircraft aimed at the home-builder market, as will Glasair, Van's, and Velocity. And Robinson Helicopters will showcase two of its models.

A complete list of all exhibitors at AOPA Expo 2004, including those with aircraft on display, is available online.

"General aviation manufacturers — especially the single-engine piston market — is one segment of the aviation industry that managed to hold its ground during the recent economic downturn and now stands poised to bounce back strong as the economy rebounds," said Boyer. "AOPA Expo 2004 is an excellent chance to see everything that this vibrant part of aviation has to offer."

With more than 400,000 members, representing nearly two thirds of all pilots in the United States, AOPA is the largest, most influential aviation association in the world. AOPA has achieved its prominent position through effective advocacy, enlightened leadership, technical competence, and hard work. Providing member services that range from representation at the federal, state, and local levels to legal services, advice, and other assistance, AOPA has built a service organization that is without peer to any other in the aviation community.

FMI: www.aopa.org