Welcome to the November 2022 edition of the highly acclaimed Club Connector Newsletter!
This month, we are focusing on the contrast of the old and the new in flying clubs. We are going to visit with clubs that have been in operation for a very long time as well as some newer clubs who are just starting out into the world. We think you’ll find that clubs everywhere whether they are old or new, have something to learn from each other!
Starting off, our Question of the Month asks the question: What can we do to ensure the longevity of our flying club? This article provides some sure fire ways to ensure your club is around and operating strong for many decades to come.
For more old and new, be sure to check out our Club Spotlight, where we look at the lessons learned from a club celebrating its 90th anniversary and contrast that with our 200th flying club, formed earlier this year.
Our Aircraft Spotlight visits two clubs with a passion for fabric covering and tail-dragging. One has been operating the same Piper Cub for 60 years, and the other is just starting out with a sharp looking Citabria.
Finally, in our Safety Section, we discuss CFIT and plan continuation bias. Similar to a flying club’s desire to continue on with tradition even when things aren’t working out, pilots can get into trouble when they ignore clear warning signs that their initial flight may not be going to plan. Check it out!
Flying Clubs Survey Launching Soon!
It’s that time of year again! Our annual flying clubs survey is launching at the end of November. This survey helps your flying clubs team glean valuable information about the state of flying clubs all over the country. We send a survey link to ONE representative of each AOPA Network Flying Club. If you are the administrator for your club’s page on our Flying Club Finder, be on the lookout for an email from us in the coming days. If you are unsure of who the admin for your page is, please email Drew and he will help you find out. As an added incentive, one lucky club who participates in the survey will win a Sporty's handheld radio!
Flying Club Workshops Underway
By the time you read this, we will have just wrapped up the second of three flying clubs workshop sessions. If you missed us, be sure to attend our third and final session where we will discuss Club Insurance and Maintenance Considerations for Flying Clubs. We hope to see you there!
FedEx AOPA Foundation High School Aviation STEM Symposium Presented by Boeing was a Success!
Last week, Drew traveled to Memphis Tennessee to support the FedEx AOPA Foundation High School Aviation STEM Symposium Presented by Boeing. There, he presented at breakout sessions covering high school flying clubs, medical certifications, and FAA written exam preparation. Thank you to all those who attended the FedEx AOPA Foundation High School Aviation STEM Symposium Presented by Boeing! If you are interested in forming a high school flying club, please reach out to us! We are looking to partner with high schools to form clubs in the new year.
