AOPA launches its new version of the former AOPA Expo in Tampa this week, and despite the stubbornly down economy, organizers expect a full exhibit hall and attendance close to what it was for the last Tampa event, four years ago. “The AOPA Aviation Summit will still have the wide variety of exhibitors and aircraft displays, educational opportunities and social events that have become hallmarks of our annual convention and trade show,” said AOPA President Craig Fuller. “But we are dramatically increasing the participation of government and industry leaders, making it easier to really delve into the issues that face us and give members and others the opportunity to get first-hand answers to the questions that concern them.” The summit aims to bring together leaders from the industry, advocacy groups, and government in support of GA’s future. AVweb will be on site all week to bring all the news, video, and podcasts straight to you from Tampa.
New this year, AOPA will be broadcasting some of its events live on the Internet, and in some discussions viewers can log on and ask questions in real time. Airportfest at nearby Peter O. Knight Airport will showcase a wider spectrum of aircraft than in the past, with hot-air balloons and LSAs as well as the usual piston airplanes. Visitors can stop in at AOPA’s Learn To Fly tent, where they can take a turn in a simulator or sign up for a $70 demo flight. Excellent VFR Florida weather is expected to persist for the duration, for those who choose to fly in.
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Click here for a podcast interview with AOPA President Craig Fuller about the Summit.
