About IAOPA

Founded in 1962. Still the single voice for general aviation.

History

Since its establishment in 1962, the International Council of Aircraft Owner and Pilot Associations (IAOPA) has grown into a global organization of more than 80 AOPA affiliates advocating for general aviation interests worldwide. In 1964, IAOPA was accepted as the sole general aviation observer to ICAO, a distinction the organization maintains to this day.

IAOPA gives general aviation a unified international voice, ensuring private pilots are represented in decisions made by ICAO and other organizations. Through close collaboration with these bodies, IAOPA helps ensure that international standards reflect the needs of general aviation.

How IAOPA Works

The governing authority of IAOPA consists of chief executives of all affiliate organizations. The Board meets biennially in conjunction with the IAOPA World Assembly.

The IAOPA World Assembly serves as a platform in bringing global AOPA affiliates together with industry experts and leaders from civil aviation authorities to discuss important issues, advancements, opportunities, and challenges that impact the general aviation sector globally.

IAOPA provides representation and participation on ICAO panels, working groups, and regional meetings to help ensure general aviation interests are both protected and promoted.

Each IAOPA affiliate submits annual dues supporting the secretariat operations of the organization.

Accomplishments

IAOPA has had a significant impact on world aviation. Among its accomplishments, IAOPA worked with international organizations to:

  • Mandate requirements for improved general aviation facilities at international airports.
  • Validate private pilot licenses by foreign countries.
  • Remove GA from airline requirements and develop international operational guidelines specifically for general aviation.
  • Revise the world airspace classification system to provide for general aviation operations.
  • Restructure and improve the ICAO pilot licensing requirements.
  • Permit VFR and mixed VFR/IFR operations within controlled airspace.
  • Reduce the impact of avionics and other equipment requirements for general aviation aircraft to operate within controlled airspace.
  • Help plan the Future Air Navigation System to the advantage of general aviation.
  • Educate world aviation bodies about general aviation and aerial work activities.
  • Eliminate restrictions to the use of airports and airspace.

Advocacy

IAOPA's positions on airspace, safety data, cost of services, and pilot training are formed by its affiliates and carried into ICAO's rulemaking process. See our full advocacy work and current issues at ICAO.

Policies & Positions →