The aviation world as we know it is a big industry. It has a huge network of players playing their role to ensure we make the most of the chartered routes of the sky. To get the best out of this world, it is important to get connected with other professionals, enthusiasts, and stakeholders in the industry. You never can tell when the need for information, expertise, or even special help might arise. It’s these connections in the industry that benefit us the most in such cases. And, this is why special aviation organizations are formed in the industry and why many eagerly join without hesitation.
An aviation organization brings you in close proximity with other players in the industry that you most likely wouldn’t have met otherwise without specific business or personal relationships. There are different types of aviation organizations in the industry ranging from charity organizations to training organizations, international organizations, and safety organizations. Pilots, aviation enthusiasts, charter brokers, business operators, and aviation students also have such organizations where they can leverage the knowledge and experience of others to better understand the aviation world. Some even grant access to opportunities that can take you ahead in the industry.
With different aviation organizations around, it’s important to know what each organization stands for and its purpose. Each organization in the aviation industry has specific visions, perks, requirements, and benefits. Today, we’re sharing a quick roundup of some reputable aviation organizations to join depending on your wants, needs, and interests.
10 Aviation Organizations To Join
Professional Pilots Association (PPA)
The Professional Pilots Association is an example of a top aviation non-profit organization. The body was set up in 1983, when it sought to help pilots by creating a community where knowledge and experience can be shared. The special organization creates a knowledge hub. From which pilots can gain a great deal with an emphasis on creating a safe flying environment. This organization has since grown from where it started and developed into a top educative and informative reference point for different communities in the aviation industry.
Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA)
The AOPA is another example of a top aviation training organization for pilots in the aviation industry. It comprises a strong network of pilots across different countries of the world, making it one of the biggest aviation organizations around. AOPA uses this string network to grow and protect the interests of general aviation. It does this by educating and informing the public about all there is to an aircraft and its operations. The organization also educates pilots themselves to improve their skills through its wealth of training materials and resources. The AOPA also advocates for the interests of aviation with government agencies to help improve the world of aviation.
The Ninety-Nines, Inc.
The Ninety-Nines is a top international aviation organization that caters to the needs and interests of female pilots. It helps women become pilots by provisioning education and scholarships. The body was established as far back as 1929 when 55 women pilots came together to push for the interests of female pilots. It has since grown into a strong network of top women pilots who share a common passion for the growth of women in the industry. With a strong history and following, the Ninety-Nines stands tall as one of the biggest aviation organizations around.
Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals (OBAP)
As the name suggests, The Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals is a non-profit aviation organization that attends to the needs and interests of minorities in the industry. This organization was founded in 1976, and helps minorities within and outside the industry aspiring to be top aviation professionals. It has a wealth of educational programs and outreaches targeting the youth to help them achieve a successful career in the industry. The body also doubles as an aviation training organization. It offers mentoring, training, and even scholarship opportunities for young aviation students and enthusiasts.
National Business Aircraft Association (NBAA)
The NBAA is one of the top aviation organizations in the industry that helps companies with all there is to be successful business aircraft operators. Members are offered all there is to succeed in the industry through networking with other peers in different parts of the industry. It also offers members with essential information for compliance with regulations, detailed guides on best practices, and premium publications. The association based in Washington, DC was founded in 1947 and has since grown into a strong network of operators.
Professional Aviation Maintenance Association (PAMA)
PAMA is one of the top aviation maintenance organizations around. It comprises a strong network of professional aviation maintenance technicians dedicated to the interests of maintenance technicians. PAMA was established in 1972, and has since been dedicated to educating, representing, and advocating for the interests of aviation safety. The body is concerned with the promotion of aviation safety – the primary area of expertise of its members – making it one of the best aviation safety organizations around.
Flight Safety Foundation (FSF)
The FSF is a leading aviation safety organization that promotes aviation safety through research, education, and advocacy. It is an international, non-profit organization that pushes for the cause of aviation safety in the industry. Through its connection with top professionals in different areas of the industry, it proffers solutions to common safety problems. It also educates on possible issues the industry is not aware of and has been a saving grace since it was established in 1947.
European Business Aviation Association (EBAA)
The EBAA represents a strong community of top operators of business aircraft in Europe. The organization has a network of over 700 companies across different sectors of the European aviation industry. EBAA helps to sustain the growth of its members through networking and resting opportunities. The body has grown considerably since it was founded in 1977 and has continued to be a leading voice in the industry with platforms such as the European Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (EBACE) – the largest business aviation trade show in Europe.
Aviation Without Borders (AWB)
Aviation Without Borders (AWB) is one of the leading aviation charity organizations around at the moment. The British charity organization offers most of its services between the UK and Africa. It has a strong network of contacts and partnerships, which it uses to support children and families in need both in the UK and overseas. The members of the organization work together to help the body in providing humanitarian services through their aviation expertise.
Aviation Emergency Response Organization (AERO)
There are few organizations in the aviation industry as concerned with aviation emergency response like AERO. AERO is a non-profit organization based in the District of Columbia with a strong network of emergency response professionals. The organization uses its website to share educational information on aviation emergency response for all stakeholders in the industry. It also holds regular meetings for members where they discuss new ways to promote the goals of the organization along with special aviation events around the world.
Aviation Organizations List
Here is a list of top reputable professional organizations in the aviation industry you can consider joining:
- Professional Pilots Association (PPA)
- Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA)
- The Ninety-Nines, Inc.
- Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals (OBAP)
- National Business Aircraft Association (NBAA)
- Professional Aviation Maintenance Association (PAMA)
- Flight Safety Foundation (FSF)
- European Business Aviation Association (EBAA)
- Aviation Without Borders (AWB)
- Aviation Emergency Response Organization (AERO)
- Latino Pilots Association
- Women in Aviation (WIA)
- Independent Pilots Association (IPA)
- Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA)
- National Association of Flight Instructors (NAFI)
- Experimental Aviation Association (EAA)
What aviation organization should you join?
The organizations above are just a handful of the plethora of reputable and beneficial aviation organizations in the industry. So, if you are a business operator that enjoys the luxury and comfort of flying safely while resting on your JetBed, or a professional in the industry, there is an organization for you. So, now it’s time to decide which aviation organization meets your needs and provides the answers to the question of how you can benefit more in the industry.