One seat at the table with ICAO.
IAOPA represents nearly 400,000 general aviation pilots and aircraft owners across its worldwide affiliates in the panels, working groups, and rulemaking that shape global aviation.
Active Issues & Advocacy
As a participant and contributor to the mandate of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) — the United Nations agency that sets global aviation standards — IAOPA sits on Panels, Working Groups and Study Groups to make sure GA's needs aren't overlooked as Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPs) are written.
IAOPA has worked for a decade to change Annex 14 language on aerodrome rescue and fire fighting requirements, with ICAO Council action following state consultation.
Guiding proposals for operationally-limited medical procedures and monitoring language proficiency requirements that have proven difficult for pilots in some regions.
A ten-year seat on the Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems Panel, ensuring airspace integration work protects the safety of manned GA traffic.
Pressing for low- or no-cost weather briefings, flight plan handling, and en-route communications so cost never becomes a reason to fly less safely.
Where IAOPA Sits at the Table
| Panel / Working Group | IAOPA's role |
|---|---|
| Airworthiness Panel | Weight classification and international recognition of maintenance organizations. |
| Operations Panel | Navigation, procedures, and training requirements — keeping single-pilot GA aircraft out of scope for airline-grade equipment mandates. |
| RPAS Panel | Airspace integration guidance for drones, protecting manned GA safety. |
| Pilot Training & Licensing Panel | Advocating for Class 4 medical privileges recognition. |
| Facilitation Working Group | Aircraft parking, terminal and airside access, and identification procedures. |
| New Generation Aviation Professionals | Supporting outreach, training, and induction efforts for the next generation of pilots. |
Our Advocacy
Beyond its seat at ICAO, IAOPA sets out its full positions in the Policy Manual and a series of general statements — the standing positions of general aviation worldwide, developed through discussion at the World Assembly and updated as issues evolve.
ICAO Working Papers & Resources
IAOPA submits formal working papers to ICAO conferences and maintains guidance documents for affiliates and members flying internationally.