RAF HEARS FROM AOPA REGIONAL MANAGERS AT ANNUAL ONLINE MEETING

The RAF hosted its annual online meeting with AOPA’s Regional Managers on September 16, where key volunteers were briefed on AOPA’s advocacy and each of its seven regions’ issues. Leon Jacker, AOPA VP of Airports and State Advocacy, introduced himself and led the discussion. AOPA continues its efforts to sustain robust funding for GA, ensure an uninterrupted transition from 100LL avgas, and fight unreasonable GA fees across the country. Successes nationally include broadening Sport Pilot and Light Sport authority, and tightening privacy around the illegitimate use of ADS-B data.

Each Regional Manager is a registered lobbyist in their respective states, and they are especially active during legislative sessions. Much of their efforts go toward saving airports under threat of closure due to noise complaints or encroaching development. Many are municipal, but these representatives are also available to help RAF Liaisons and Ambassadors who are faced with closures of recreational airports, as well. “AOPA’s partnership with the RAF makes us stronger. We hear the same concerns,” RAF Chairman John McKenna said.

“We appreciate being a partner with the RAF, as well,” Jackler added, saying, “People fear what they don’t understand, and together we can inform the non-flying public of the benefits of their local airport.”

During the Q&A session, RAF Director Tim Riley discussed AOPA’s educational resources for airport sponsors. AOPA’s Southern Regional Manager Stacy Heaton suggested that RAF Liaisons consider initiatives to inform the public about aviation, such as cultivating good relationships with local news outlets, and provide positive Op-Ed articles.

Each AOPA representative on the call expressed appreciation for the work the RAF does, and for the relationship between the two organizations.

The services these advocates provide are another benefit of AOPA membership. The RAF encourages all pilots to support the organization that, for over 80 years, has worked to protect our freedom to fly.
See AOPA.

Submitted September 29, 2025

Photo by James Stevenson, Baraboo Hills, Wisconsin