Senate Commemorates AOPAs 80th Anniversary
A bipartisan resolution commemorating the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association’s (AOPA) eightieth anniversary was passed by the U.S. Senate on Monday. The resolution recognizes the efforts of the association in-(1) helping to ensure the freedom to fly; and (2) leaving a lasting legacy for future generations of aviators.

A bipartisan resolution commemorating the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association's (AOPA) eightieth anniversary was passed by the U.S. Senate on Monday. The resolution (PDF) "recognizes the efforts of the association in—(1) helping to ensure the freedom to fly; and (2) leaving a lasting legacy for future generations of aviators." It was submitted by Senator James Inhofe, R-Okla., along with cosponsors Sens. Tammy Duckworth, D-Ill., Kevin Cramer, R-N.D., Jerry Moran, R-Kan., Pat Roberts, R-Kan., Ron Wyden, D-Ore., Steve Daines, R-Mont., John Boozman, R-Ark., Dan Sullivan, R-Alaska, and Chris Van Hollen, D-Md.
"For eight decades, AOPA has been a leading advocate in the aviation community, educating the public and members of congress about the many important issues facing our nation's general aviation pilots," said Senator Duckworth. "I'm excited to have worked alongside Senator Inhofe to pass this resolution honoring their valuable contributions."
AOPA was officially formed on May 15, 1939, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. It was founded by Alfred L. Wolf, Charles Townsend Ludington, Laurence P. and Philip T. Sharples, and John Story Smith. In its 80-year history, the organization has been led by five presidents: Joseph ‘‘Doc'' Hartranft, John Baker, Philip Boyer, Craig Fuller, and, currently, Mark Baker.
