As previously noted, the 2008 COPA 'Migration' (M6) happened to
be a GREAT place for ANN and Aero-TV to gauge the mood and feelings
of the Cirrus community... about the organization that has gained
such a sterling rep throughout GA, about the realities of GA
travel... and whether there is an undercurrent of 'jet envy' among
the crowd of fast-moving piston drivers. Second time around,
though, we have a little fun with the airlines and ask Cirrus
Pilots from all over the world as to whether GA is effectively
competing with airline travel. So here we go with Question 2 -- How
is GA comparing with airline travel these days?
COPA's annual "Migration" is hosted by owners and flyers of the
Cirrus Design flock. Gathering in the shadow of the CD factory in
Duluth, Minnesota, it is an event chock full of fun, fellowship,
education and more than a few surprises. Exceptionally well
organized, by ANY standard, the event hosts hundreds of planes,
flyers and exhibitors -- and rarely leaves any attendee looking for
more.
That said, the annual COPA Migration is obviously THE biggest
event of the year for Cirrus pilots. In early July 2008, hundreds
of Cirrus aircraft flew in from all over the country (and beyond)
to return to the "nest" to take advantage of an extensive and
varied roster of activities for the pilots AND their families.
Migration events include a number of unique and highly-anticipated
evening social events, numerous seminars and presentations, and an
extensive trade exhibition.
The Cirrus Owners and Pilots Association (COPA) is a not-for
profit membership organization established to educate, promote the
safety of and support the owners and pilots of certified aircraft
manufactured by Cirrus Design Corporation, encourage ownership of
these aircraft and provide social activities for its members.
Additionally, COPA will promote goodwill towards the general
aviation community. Founded in 2001, with over 2800 members
worldwide, COPA is a volunteer-run organization completely
independent of Cirrus Design Corp.
Open to all interested individuals. Dues are $65 per year, which
includes a subscription to Cirrus Pilot magazine, access to the
COPA members website and forums, and eligibility to attend other
COPA events and activities (additional fees apply to some
activities). Particularly notable are the online forums run by
COPA. One of the most active online forums in general aviation, the
COPA forums have hundreds of messages posted each day. It has
become the 'ideal place to absorb information or get any question
answered... often in minutes' on all things Cirrus.
With over 250,000 past posts in the Members section, COPA forums
are also a vast treasure store of knowledge and information of
incalculable value to the prospective or active Cirrus pilot or
owner.
Bolen Gives Congress a Rare Thumbs-Up
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