Future Speakers Include NTSB Chairman, Congressman

In its relatively short existence, the Wichita Aero Club has attracted some heavy hitters to speak at its monthly meetings. Pete Bunce, President and CEO of the General Aviation Manufacturers Association in Washington, DC, will be the featured speaker at the club's monthly luncheon at noon on March 17, 2009 at the Wichita Airport Hilton.

Bunce, who formerly directed Congressional Budget and Appropriations Liaison activities for the United State Air Force, joined GAMA in 2005. He will present a review of the general aviation industry’s performance and projections for the coming year, with special emphasis on key challenges and issues and the impact of the current economic crisis.

As President of GAMA, Bunce (shown below) routinely testifies on Capitol Hill, serves on governmental task forces and working groups, and interacts with regulators, policy makers and elected officials to promote general aviation and serve the organization’s international membership of 62 airframe, avionics, engine and component manufacturers.

"Since the new administration has taken office, Mr. Bunce has been an outspoken and eloquent advocate for the use of business and general aviation aircraft in the face of ill-informed and unwarranted criticism," writes the Aero Club. "He continues to advocate for passage of a federal budget that funds improvements to the Air Traffic Control system that is underwritten by aviation taxes (as it currently is) not user fees."

The Wichita Aero Club was founded in October 2008, and hosted its first monthly luncheon in December. The organization was established to foster and promote interest in aviation, provide a forum focused on the industry’s issues and achievements and bring together those with a passion for flight in an environment that expands and enhances professional relationships and furthers cooperation and understanding.

Future WAC luncheons will include National Transportation Safety Board Chairman Mark Rosenker on April 14, noted aviation writer and blogger Rob Mark on May 19,  AirTran Airways CEO Bob Fornaro on June 23 and Kansas Congressman and senatorial candidate Todd Tiahrt on July 13.

Tickets for any of the Aero Club's luncheons may be purchased at the FMI link below.

FMI: www.wichitaaeroclub.org