AOPA is expecting thousands of general aviation pilots and enthusiasts to flock to Palm Springs, Calif., to attend the AOPA
Aviation Summit, being held Oct. 11-13, 2012. The AOPA Aviation Summit is general aviation’s leading trade show and convention, with dozens of aircraft on display at Airportfest, more than 400 booths in the convention center exhibit hall, and nearly 100 hours of seminars offered over three days. (FAA Acting Administrator Michael Huerta shown at right)
AOPA President and CEO Craig L. Fuller said whether you’re an aircraft owner, a pilot who rents, or an aviation enthusiast, the Aviation Summit has something to offer, from the exhibits in the hall and at the airport, to the seminars and social events. Fuller also said you can also get answers to your aviation questions, explore all that our industry has to offer, and discover new ways to get the most out of your flying.
The excitement begins on Wednesday, Oct. 10 at 10:00 a.m., with the Parade of Planes, where dozens of aircraft taxi under their own power from Palm Springs International Airport to the Palm Springs Convention Center. Airportfest, outside the convention center, will have dozens of aircraft on display, ranging from light sport aircraft to business jets, all free and open to the public.
On Thursday, Oct. 11, keynote speakers include : AOPA Editor in Chief Tom Haines, Senior Editor Dave Hirschman and Editor At Large Tom Horne discuss with Fuller their recent around the world adventures; and Adam Kisielewski, a wounded war veteran and LSA pilot, will share his inspiring story. AOPA will also announce the winner of its “2012 Tougher than a Tornado Sweepstakes” aircraft, an Aviat Husky.
On Thursday evening, the AOPA Foundation will host the A Night for Flight benefit gala and charity online auction, featuring actor, pilot, and general aviation advocate Harrison Ford, who has donated a lunch and flight on his aircraft. Proceeds will benefit the AOPA Foundation.
Ford will also participate in the Oct. 12 keynote address to discuss the importance of general aviation to the United States. The keynote also will feature FAA Acting Administrator Michael Huerta, who will share his vision for GA’s future; and AOPA’s Craig Fuller and Tom Haines will be back with Flying magazine Editor in Chief Robert Goyer to debate the pros and cons of the presidential candidates and other issues facing GA.
