EAA Sport Aviation - September 2009

advocacy update
Only in Oshkosh

EARL LAWRENCE, EAA 265455

EAA Vice President of Government and Industry Affairs

Those of you who tune into my weekly Ultraflight Radio broadcast are aware that I stress the impor- tance of EAA AirVenture Oshkosh and participation in general aviation events everywhere. This year’s convention was my 23rd and by far the best I have experienced. The magic of EAA and Oshkosh was demonstrated throughout the week. For government advocacy efforts, as with many other activities, nothing compares to the Oshkosh environment. At AirVenture, government and industry come together to collaborate in a manner for the good of general aviation. The passion for general aviation cannot be lost on the government and industry leaders attending the event.

For years I have witnessed as guests marveled at the collective display of general aviation at Oshkosh. Members of Congress and FAA

employees, whose only experience is often limited to military and airline aviation, leave with a new appreciation of general aviation. Many are in awe of the innovation and craftsmanship displayed in homebuilt and restoration projects. A few years ago, I hosted one congressman who was amazed to learn that middle class people owned and flew aircraft.

Even more amazing was the possibility that new light-sport aircraft could be purchased for less than a luxury car. But most importantly, these leaders make a connection with EAA members. As our founder, Paul Poberezny, has often said, it’s the aircraft that bring us together, but it is the people who keep us coming back.

Your government advocacy team hosted more government officials than ever before at AirVenture 2009. It is clear that the FAA and even the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) believe Oshkosh is the place to gauge the pulse of the general aviation community and to receive a firsthand view of issues, aircraft, and people. The recently confirmed FAA Administrator, Randy Babbitt, an EAA member, demonstrated how the spirit of Oshkosh infects all who attend AirVenture. He added his own signature to the thousands of others who “stand up for GA.” By joining others in support of general aviation, Administrator Babbitt showed he’s part of our community.

One experience from this past convention highlighted how the Oshkosh environment affects both government and aviation enthusiasts. Brian Delauter, the newly appointed head of the TSA general aviation office, who was visiting Oshkosh for the first time, contacted me regarding several “EarthRounders” who landed at Wittman Regional Airport (OSH). He was not calling because of a violation, but rather to assist with the completion of the around-the-world trip free of any TSA issues. When was the last time TSA contacted you to ensure border crossing ease? Only in Oshkosh does this happen.

Another milestone reached at AirVenture Oshkosh 2009 was the signing of a memorandum of understanding between EAA and the Aircraft Owners and

Pilots Association (AOPA). EAA and AOPA have often worked the same advocacy issues; this memorandum is meant to demonstrate that together we are dedicated to advancing the general aviation community, and when possible, we will combine the resources of both organizations to ensure that members receive the best advocacy that our joint efforts can produce. Numerous members have already expressed their support for this partnership.

EAA is privileged to host The World’s Greatest Aviation

Celebration. Our event attracts aviation officials and enthusiasts from around the globe. This opportunity allows us to educate them about the needs and wants of the recreational flying community. Throughout the week your government advocacy team worked issues from ultralights to warbirds, and everything in between, from what fuel you use to what pilot certificate you need.

Thank you for visiting Oshkosh and once again showing the world the wonderful attributes of EAA members. And most importantly, thank you for reinforcing why I am privileged to advocate on your behalf.