EAA President Jack Pelton has highlighted some of the most significant contributions to the aviation industry made by Mark Baker, particularly through the BasicMed initiative and the AOPA Foundation’s You Can Fly program. BasicMed has been a game-changer for over 80,000 U.S. pilots, offering a more accessible and cost-effective way to fly without compromising safety. Meanwhile, the AOPA High Schools initiative, part of the You Can Fly program, is making waves by providing a free aviation curriculum to numerous schools. This initiative not only prepares students for aviation careers but also offers professional development for teachers and scholarships for both students and educators. As Baker proudly noted, the high school program is expanding rapidly and has been entirely funded by donations, costing AOPA members nothing.
In other news, Darren Pleasance, the current AOPA President, has been honored as an EAA director emeritus at AirVenture. Pleasance, who joined EAA in 1996 and later became an International Aerobatic Club member, served on the EAA board from 2010 until he took on his role at AOPA in January. Pelton praised Pleasance for his invaluable insights into emerging technologies and his deep passion for aviation, which is evident in his diverse experience as an aircraft owner and pilot.
On a related note, AOPA Pilot Editor at Large, Dave Hirschman, has been a key figure at AOPA since 2008. With an airline transport pilot certificate and expertise in instrument and multiengine flight instruction, Dave is known for his love of vintage, historical, and Experimental airplanes. He specializes in tailwheel and aerobatic instruction, sharing his wealth of knowledge and passion for flying with the aviation community.
#AviationInnovation #YouCanFly #BasicMed #AviationEducation #EAA #AOPA
Originally reported by AOPA General Aviation News Read More
