The decade from 2010 to 2019 for General Aviation was one of tremendous technological progress, from computer watches to autonomous flight control. Manufacturers also launched some amazing new planes, including a jet from Cirrus, the incredible globetrotting Gulfstream G650, a remarkable diesel twin, the DA-62, from Diamond, among others. At the same time we in GA continued to fight against onerous regulation, often but not always successfully, while working to keep the activity we love open, accessible and fun, challenges that won’t end with a new decade but that will certainly be met by a population of passionate aviators focusing on what really matters, the joy and freedom of flight.
AOPA Gets Its Mojo Back
Most organizations, even successful ones, that face the departure of longtime leader struggle in the years to follow to stay true to the mission and brand that got them to where they were in the first place. When longtime leader Phil Boyer retired in 2008, AOPA had its work cut out for it to keep it relevant and useful to its members in a changing GA landscape. After a few challenging years with smart leadership that seemed not to connect well with the membership, AOPA hired Mark Baker as its leader. He was the perfect choice. A person whoâs a remarkably successful business leader and passionate GA pilot, Baker has both put AOPA on sound footing with programs and finances but heâs connected with its members in a very fundamental way, that is, as a pilot whoâs got our backs.