Florida Man Has Diverse Aviation Experience From Ultralights To Airlines

Mark Solper of Fort Pierce, Florida, who has long experience in ultralights and a variety of other aircraft types, has been named chairman of the Experimental Aircraft Association’s Ultralight and Light-Sport Aircraft Council. He succeeds Carla Larsh, who is retiring from the post after having chaired that council for the past decade.

Solper (EAA 1098006) is a member of the Wisconsin Powered Parachute Association and also a member of EAA Chapter 1622 based in New Holstein, Wisconsin. He will chair the council that guides EAA policy and programs for ultralight and light-sport aircraft enthusiasts.

“Mark’s background in ultralight flying, flight safety, and pilot training makes him an excellent choice to chair that valuable EAA member-based council,” said Jack J. Pelton, EAA CEO and Chairman of the Board. “We also thank Carla Larsh for her many years of dedicated service to EAA and the ultralight/light-sport aircraft community. Her leadership put this council in a very good position for the future.”

Solper built on his childhood fascination with flight by earning his flight instructor certificate in Green Bay, Wisconsin. He later operated a flight school in Pulaski, Wisconsin, while also building a career that included experience with the FAA, line captain and training standards manager for a major airline, and chairman of the Air Line Pilots Association accident investigation board.

“Ultralight and light-sport aircraft flying offers a wonderfully fun, simple, and affordable way to be engaged in flight,” Solper said. “Our council is dedicated to preserving that accessibility, as well as working with EAA to enhance programs and activities that will enhance safety and fun for our members.”

Among the aircraft Solper currently flies include a Powrachute Sky Rascal, a Santos Dumont-inspired Skonkwerks 24M, and an Aerolite 103.

(Image provided with EAA news release)

FMI: www.eaa.org