Several Aero Clubs around the country, most notably in Washington and Atlanta, have proven to be valuable networking assets to their local aviation community. Aiming to follow that pattern, a consortium of business, government and educational organizations in the greater Wichita area has announced that it will form the Wichita Aero Club. “Aviation is the driving force in the greater Wichita area. There have been more airplanes produced in Wichita than anywhere else in the world,” said Bob Stangarone, vice president of corporate communications for Cessna and chairman of the ad-hoc committee that launched the group. “It is appropriate that this community have a world-class platform for discussion of key industry issues, the recognition of achievements and innovations in aerospace, and a forum that encourages interaction and cooperation,” he said. The new group plans to host monthly luncheons and invite high-profile speakers to address major aviation industry issues.
The group will also have a Web site, publish an online newsletter, and host fundraising events throughout the year. More details about the leadership and activities of the Wichita Aero Club will be announced next Monday at the NBAA Annual Meeting & Convention in Orlando, Fla. For more information about the club, contact Dave Franson at (316) 681-4491.
