Forming A Flying Club, Or Joining A Flying Club, Could Be An Affordable Way To Enjoy Recreational Aviation

In many parts of the world flying clubs are about the only way recreational flyers can enjoy aviation as a sport. But, for some reason, the formation of flying clubs has been a slow-motion affair in the U.S. AOPA is helping with the concept of flying clubs by providing encouragement and guidance for those who are interested.

On AOPA's website they wrote, “Whenever pilots get together for a little hangar flying, the conversation is likely to turn to ownership. Each pilot has his or her dream. One may talk of the ideal King Air, fully IFR equipped with a couch, bar, and separate restroom in the cabin. Another might talk about flying sophisticated, high-performance singles. But eventually the conversation drifts back to earth and to more affordable aircraft. Most pilots have to admit they probably can't even afford one of those, at least not alone. But, with a partner or two....” They go on to say that most flying club start this way and then they provide a lot of details and ideas about the club concept.

Forming a flying club is much like operating a small business. For the club to be successful, it’s important to enter the process with knowledge and planning. A true flying club is more than just “sharing” the use of an aircraft. The club must be a cooperative endeavor through coordinated membership participation.

AOPA’s flying club initiative’s main goal is to grow the community of flying clubs by building a national network of existing clubs, and by providing resources to individuals wanting to start a flying club. Flying Clubs play a significant role in the aviation community, and can contribute to the future growth of General Aviation. AOPA’s approach is based on extensive research into the flying club experience.

Thousands of pilots worldwide have found an outlet for their passion for flight through a local flying club. With more than 600 clubs in the United States, there are many opportunities to become a member at an already-existing flying club. AOPA provides a “flying club finder” on their website.

AOPA has also produced a video titled, “Forming a Flying Club,” that will give you an overview of the process of starting a new club. "AOPA's Guide to Starting a Flying Club" provides you with greater detail on the various aspects of forming a club.

The link below will provide you with some great information regarding flying clubs.

(Image from file)

FMI:Flying club information