The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association of France will host the 22nd World Assembly of the International Council of Aircraft Owner and Pilot Associations (IAOPA), 20-25 April 2004 in Toulouse, France. Topics facing international delegates to the biennial gathering of the World Assembly include air traffic services, airport and airspace access, user fees, security and the business of running their associations.

"IAOPA is proof that there is strength in unity," said IAOPA President Phil Boyer. "Together, our 60 organizations present a formidable front for general aviation and aerial work in international forums. The work done at the World Assembly allows us to share information and ideas, and lets us plan for the years ahead."

Delegates will take part in a wide range of discussions on general aviation and aerial work activities. They will hear from experts representing the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), the French Directorate of Civil Aviation, the European Aviation Safety Agency, and aircraft manufacturers. The delegates will form panels to discuss important issues and make recommendations concerning key issues. Resolutions developed from these discussions will be used to provide policies and direction for IAOPA and its affiliates.

The IAOPA 22nd World Assembly will be held at the Pierre Baudis Congress Center, located in downtown Toulouse. The convention center is conveniently attached to a Mercure Hotel. A number of touring events to nearby attractions are planned for delegates and their guests.

"AOPA France has been a leader in articulating the needs of general aviation in that nation, so it's appropriate that they host this important event for all our affiliates," said Boyer.

All interested parties are invited to join with IAOPA delegates in the World Assembly public sessions to learn about the future direction of worldwide general aviation and aerial work.

The most recent World Assemblies were in Sao Paulo, Brazil in 2002 and Edinburgh, Scotland in 2000. IAOPA represents the interests of more than 470,000 general aviation and aerial work pilots and aircraft operators through AOPA affiliates in 60 countries around the world. The Council was formed in 1962 to provide a voice for general aviation in world aviation forums.

FMI: www.iaopa.org