Obitts Outbound: Castagna Inbound

Founded in 1940 and comprising some 2,300 member entities, the National Air Transportation Association (NATA) is the public policy organization that represents the interests of the general aviation business community before the United States Congress and federal, state, and local government agencies.

On 24 August 2022, NATA formally announced that Timothy Obitts will step down as the association’s President and CEO effective 01 September 2022. Mr. Obitts will take up the mantle of Chief Legal Officer for low-carbon energy and biofuel concern Alder Fuels.

NATA’s board has appointed Curt Castagna, president and CEO of aviation consultancy Aeroplex Group Partners, to serve as the outfit’s 11th President and CEO.

Since joining NATA in November 2014, Mr. Obitts has served as the association’s CEO, executive vice president of business operations, and senior vice president of business & general counsel. In subject capacities, Mr. Obitts oversaw NATA’s day-to-day operation and strove to maintain a member-first culture.

For the duration of his term, Mr. Obitts advocated for NATA’s members and personally involved himself in the COVID-19 relief efforts of numerous aviation businesses. By bringing together leaders of varied general aviation groups and promoting initiatives that advanced the proliferation of sustainable aviation fuels, encouraged the use of book and claim programs, and provided a roadmap for FBOs, airports, and other aviation businesses to reduce their environmental footprints, Mr. Obitts helped foster and further the aerospace industry’s commitment to sustainability.

On the occasion of his departure, Mr. Obitts states: “It has been an honor to serve the membership of NATA these past eight years. We have accomplished much together, overcome adversity, furthered the cause of aviation safety, and raised awareness of the critical role that aviation businesses play in advancing society. I am proud and humbled to have been the leader of a great team at NATA and continue my support of leadership in advancing the association’s success.”

Mr. Castagna—who will retain his position and duties as president and CEO of Aeroplex Group Partners—will serve NATA’s membership by bringing his experience and acumen to bear on the snarl of opportunities and pitfalls with which the 21st Century aerospace industry is faced. Prior to accepting the NATA presidency, Mr. Castagna served over six years as an NATA Board Member, including two years as Board Chair and one year as Immediate Past Chair.

Of his appointment and new position, Mr. Castagna states: “I am honored to continue my service to NATA members and the aviation industry in my new role. My ability to serve in this capacity is based in part on the tireless efforts of Keith DeBerry as COO, Jason Miller as CFO, and the entire dedicated NATA staff. Together, we will work to advance safety initiatives, enhance training opportunities, assist aviation businesses in navigating the needs of emerging industry markets, and ensure business aviation policy is sound and aligns with our members’ current operating environment."

FMI: www.nata.aero