The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association has canceled its September 11-12, 2020, fly-in in Rochester, New York, as a result of ongoing issues associated with the COVID-19 pandemic.
“As we have anticipated the reopening of most activities following the early COVID-19 stay-at-home orders, our AOPA events team has worked hard to maintain the viability of our Rochester fly-in with the hopes that it could be our first big event of this unique year,” said AOPA President and CEO Mark Baker. “This decision was not taken lightly, and it was made in close coordination with all event partners, including Monroe County executives, local and state health departments, and airport/ATC management.
“A number of factors went into this decision: the continuing constraints that COVID-19 is expected to have on large-scale events in New York State, and staffing issues related to the health crisis and resulting slowdowns,” Baker added. “The serious challenges and potential restrictions ahead of us just won’t allow us to create the type of member and exhibitor experience that would meet our high standards.”
Those who registered for the event will receive a full refund. Registrants don’t need to take any action to initiate refunds; AOPA will process credit card refunds. Please expect delays for refunds by check.
“The ROC community is saddened we aren’t able to host the September AOPA fly-in,” said Andrew G. Moore, Airport Director. “We certainly understand the decision and look forward to being able to host AOPA in the future.”
Earlier this year, AOPA was forced to cancel its fly-in events in San Marcos, Texas, and Casper, Wyoming. AOPA is working with local officials and organizers for all our 2020 fly-ins on potential future dates for those events.
AOPA and its Air Safety Institute have created aviation resources as the nation continues to recover from the health crisis and as states modify social distancing restrictions. The COVID-19 Flight Operations Guide is designed to help flight schools, flying clubs, FBOs, and other aircraft operators; the Return-to-Flight Proficiency Plan, created in partnership with Hartzell Propeller Inc., helps to ensure that pilots safely return to the air after a period of inactivity.
