AOPA | Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association
The world’s largest community of pilots 🛫
Advocacy, education, and resources for your freedom to fly.
Did you know getting your private pilot certificate is a great way to start your journey in flying professionally? Just ask Maverick!
In celebrating Top Gun’s 40th Anniversary, we’re reminding you that any aviation path is possible. The first step is up to you.
AOPA Board Chairman Luke Wippler provided an update after this week’s annual member meeting, where he pledged transparency and openness, and encouraged all pilots to help strengthen the future of AOPA.
From preferred aircraft to favorite airshow, we asked this year’s SUN ’n FUN attendees to pick their favorites. Did the Mustang beat the T-6? Are Night Airshows better than the Day Airshow?
Watch this episode of This Or That and tell us if you agree with the winners in the comments.
This is what advocacy looks like.
When accomplished pilot, engineer, and YouTube sensation Xyla Foxlin faced unfair treatment due to an unexpected bout of depression caused by a change in her birth control, she turned her frustration with a tedious system into action.
Not only did Xyla regain her medical certificate, but she has also brought much-needed awareness to two bills in efforts to protect the rights of pilots seeking help with their mental health. Watch to learn more about Xyla’s story.
Check out the link in bio to explore AOPA's Mental Health Resource Center
Proficiency is built over time, but it’s maintained through attention and discipline.
Tune in as we rate the landings of a beginner, an intermediate, and an expert pilot. Then tell us what you think matters more in the comments—experience or following the fundamentals?
Once overlooked and often underestimated, this Cessna 175 is getting a second life.
Owner Dean Castillo considers the 175 a “budget steal” in its stock configuration, but its potential through upgrades is limitless. From engine conversions and STOL kits to added suspension and propeller upgrades, see why this aircraft is worth a closer look.
Stalls can quickly escalate into a spin, but recovery relies on a few fundamentals.
To better equip our pilots, we’ve created this video on implementing the PARE method, a proven way to recover from a spin.
Watch the full video and stay ahead of the unexpected.
The 2026 trustee slate has been announced—here’s what you need to know.
Voting will be held at the Annual Meeting of Members on May 12 in Frederick, MD—either in person or by assigning a proxy in advance. Nine returning candidates and two new voices have been selected based on their potential to bring new skills and professional experience that strengthen the Board's governance and ability to execute against our strategic priorities, including GA pilot engagement.
Your voice matters. Review the candidates and RSVP at the annual meeting page. Link in our bio.
Nothing will reinvigorate your childlike imagination as quickly as aerobatic aviation.
Watch Jimmy Hayes, a revered aerobatic pilot, weave the sleek Pilatus PC-7 through impossible lines and mind-bending maneuvers. With Jimmy, you’ll undoubtedly feel a License to Thrill.
BasicMed isn’t a shortcut; it’s a smarter system.
We’re here to clear up some common misconceptions about this pilot health assessment course. Contrary to popular belief, BasicMed does not eliminate the need to see a doctor or undergo certain medical exams, and it is absolutely not just for “old” or retired pilots.
To help you better understand the course, we’ve updated our website with more info and tools. Follow the link in bio and see how you can benefit from BasicMed.
SUN ’n FUN never disappoints, and neither does this community.
We want to thank you for visiting the AOPA tent and would love to hear your favorite parts of the weekend. How many of the aviation exhibitors did you see? What did you think of the Sweepstakes Aviat Husky?
Share your favorite moments in the comments. #snf26
