Clubs today are operating a little differently than they used to, and we’ve seen a big increase in new flying club formations. One trend we’ve noticed is that younger or newer members don’t always feel motivated to come out to the airport for traditional club meetings. Sometimes attendance is required by the bylaws, but wouldn’t it be better if members actually wanted to show up? Imagine a club where people come out not just because they have to, but because they enjoy spending time with fellow pilots, sharing stories, swapping tips, and enjoying good food. That kind of atmosphere builds real camaraderie and keeps members coming back.
With about a year in my role as manager of the Flying Club Initiative here at AOPA, I’ve had the chance to attend a number of club meetings across the region. Every one of them has been well attended, with members who are genuinely engaged and excited to be there. Pilots love to talk about the golden years of aviation, show off their aircraft, and trade tips on safe flying. The conversation often turns to favorite destinations and, of course, the best spot for a hundred-dollar hamburger. One question that comes up time and time again is how to keep members engaged. From what I’ve seen, adding an activity or event beyond the usual clubhouse meeting is a great way to start. It gives members a reason to show up, connect, and enjoy the club experience.
I’ve seen firsthand how clubs are finding creative ways to keep members engaged. Here are a couple of great examples.
I recently had the chance to attend a flying club meeting in the Pittsburgh area, where the Beaver Valley Flying Club hosted an AOPA Air Safety Institute presentation on operations in the Washington, DC Special Flight Rules Area (SFRA). Many of the members had personal reasons for flying into the SFRA, whether to visit family or head to the beach, so the topic was especially relevant. Right away, I was impressed by their clubhouse—it had a comfortable lounge area and a fridge stocked with snacks, making it a great place to relax and connect. The members were friendly, engaged, and clearly proud of their club. Outside the hangar, I spotted a large box of seafood, and the vice president, Jim Wholey, mentioned that salmon was on the lunch menu. Jim Wholey is also the president of Wholey’s Seafood—a well-known fish market and grocery store located in Pittsburgh’s historic Strip District. We held off on eating until after the meeting, since once the food comes out, people tend to wander off. It was the first time I’d seen a club serve such a great meal at a meeting. The discussion was lively, with members asking thoughtful questions throughout. Afterward, we opened the hangar doors, shared stories, and spent time just enjoying each other’s company.
After the meeting, I had the chance to tour Beaver County Airport (KBVI), and it truly sets the bar for how a general aviation airport should operate. The tower was active with air traffic controllers in training, which was exciting to watch. On the ramp, a Young Eagles event was in full swing, giving kids the opportunity to take a flight with experienced pilots and spark their interest in aviation. We also got to explore some of the ex-military aircraft based on the field, including a C-123 and a Sherpa. It was a great reminder of how airports can serve not just as places to launch and land, but as vibrant hubs for education, history, and community engagement.
Clubs like Beaver Valley show how a little effort in creating a welcoming space and offering meaningful programming can go a long way. When members feel comfortable, well-fed, and genuinely engaged, they’re more likely to show up, participate, and stay involved. It’s a great reminder that flying clubs aren’t just about airplanes, they’re about people, connection, and building a community that pilots want to be part of.
Another meeting I had the chance to attend was with the Clearview Flying Club at Clearview Airpark (2W2). This group really sets the standard for what a sharp, well-run flying club looks like. During the event, the local fire department came out to demonstrate how they respond to aircraft emergencies on the field. They showed different rescue techniques and walked us through how fire suppression systems work both on the ramp and inside the cockpit. What made it even more engaging was that we used actual club aircraft and equipment already on the field for the demonstrations. It was hands-on, informative, and a great example of how clubs can mix safety education with member involvement.
Beyond these standout clubs, there are plenty of simple ways to keep members involved and excited about flying.
Every September, the Clearview Flying Club hosts its annual fly-in at Clearview Airpark, and it has become a favorite tradition for both members and visiting pilots. The event brings together a great mix of aircraft, aviation enthusiasts, and community members. There’s always something going on, from aircraft displays and safety demonstrations to food, music, and plenty of hangar talk. The local fire department often joins in to showcase emergency response techniques, which adds a unique educational element to the day. It’s the kind of event that reminds you why flying clubs matter. People come for the airplanes, but they stay for the conversations, the connections, and the shared love of aviation.
Sometimes the best way to get club members flying is to give them a fun destination. Fly-outs are a great excuse to hop in the plane and head somewhere new, especially if there’s a good meal waiting at the other end. The “hundred-dollar hamburger” may be a classic aviation joke, but it’s also a tried-and-true way to bring pilots together. Whether it’s breakfast at a small-town airport café or lunch at a spot with picnic tables right on the ramp, these trips turn a simple flight into a social event. Clubs can rotate destinations, invite friends, and make a day of it. It’s not just about the food, it’s about the flying, the stories, and the time spent with fellow aviators.
One of the most effective ways we’ve found to support flying clubs is by showing up in person. If a club is located within flying distance of Maryland, the AOPA Flying Club Initiative team can often fly in to attend a meeting and host a FAAST presentation. These sessions cover important safety topics, give members a chance to ask questions, and qualify for FAA WINGS credit, which is a great bonus for pilots looking to stay current and sharp. For clubs that are further away, we’re always happy to set up a webinar tailored to the club’s interests. Whether it’s in person or online, these presentations are a great way to spark conversation, share knowledge, and strengthen the connection between AOPA and the flying club community. It’s one of the best tools we have for keeping clubs engaged and informed.
Airplane wash parties are a fun and practical way for flying clubs to bring members together. It’s usually a relaxed weekend event where everyone pitches in to clean the club aircraft, catch up with fellow pilots, and enjoy some time at the airport. Members show up with buckets, towels, and a little elbow grease, and before long the planes are gleaming. Some clubs add coffee and donuts in the morning or fire up the grill for lunch afterward. It’s a simple tradition, but it builds camaraderie, encourages pride in the aircraft, and gives members a chance to connect outside of a formal meeting.
Another great way to bring a club together is to keep it simple, fire up the projector, roll open the hangar doors, and enjoy a movie under the wing. Hangar movie nights are a great way to relax, connect, and share a few laughs with fellow members. Whether it’s a classic like Top Gun or a documentary about aviation history, the setting makes it special. This might just be the one night where I’ll allow the burgers and hot dogs. Add some popcorn, folding chairs, and you’ve got a perfect evening at the airport. It’s low effort, high reward, and a great way to keep the club spirit alive.
Flying clubs are at their best when they create a space where people feel welcome, connected, and inspired to fly. Whether it’s a fly-out, a safety seminar, a wash party, or a movie night in the hangar, the goal is to build a sense of community that keeps members coming back. If your club is looking for new ways to boost engagement or needs support planning an event, the AOPA Flying Club Initiative is here to help. Feel free to reach out anytime, we’re always happy to share ideas, offer guidance, and help your club grow stronger.
