Poberezny Discusses How to Combat the Dwindling Pilot Population

On November 5th through November 7th, 2009, AOPA held their annual Aviation Summit at the Tampa Convention Center located in Tampa, Florida.  Over 7,500 aviation enthusiasts attended various forums, speeches, as well as hundreds of booths featuring the latest in G.A. technology.

AOPA kicked off this year’s summit with a riveting opening session entitled “One Voice,” led by AOPA’s President and CEO, Craig Fuller.  The panel, featuring association CEOs from AEA, EAA, GAMA, NATA, NBAA, and WAI, discussed the most vital aspects affecting general aviation today.  From technological advancements to economical and government impact, industry leaders spoke candidly about the general aviation market and what they, as well as the community at large, can do to support the progression of aviation in the future.

One significant problem that’s been discussed throughout the aviation community is the dwindling pilot population.  As the majority of current aviators and aircraft enthusiasts reach retirement, industry leaders and associations are hard-pressed to bring new participants into the world of aviation. 

AOPA’s Craig Fuller asked Tom Poberezny, President of EAA, what the aviation community can do to better engage the younger generations, particularly the 20 to 40 year-old segment gap that currently exists in market demographics.  

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