More than 70 GA aircraft on display at AOPA Expo 2004
General aviation is the largest segment of the aviation
industry, with a dizzying array of aircraft. More than 70 examples
of GA's broad range, from two-seat training aircraft to light
business jets, will be on display at Long Beach Airport as part of
the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association's AOPA Expo 2004,
October 21-23.
"AOPA Expo offers fascinating, educational seminars,
opportunities to hear directly from high-ranking government
officials who affect aviation policy, and an exhibit hall full of
the latest in avionics and aviation-related products," said AOPA
President Phil Boyer. "But let's face it, we're plane people, and
it's the planes that are the real draw."
The static display area is at Airflite Aviation Services at Long
Beach Airport, just a short, free shuttle bus ride from the Long
Beach Convention Center, where the exhibit hall and seminars will
be.
The centerpiece of this year's static display is the grand prize
in AOPA's 2004 Win-A-Twin Sweepstakes, a completely refurbished,
better-than-new 1965 Piper Twin Comanche. The aircraft features a
stunning new paint scheme, a luxurious new interior, and a panel
that will make the winner the envy of everyone at the local
airport. For a complete look at all the work done, visit the Web
page.
The other aircraft on display represent a wide array of
manufacturers: Adam, ATG, Aviat, Bombardier, Cessna, Cirrus,
Diamond, EADS Socata, Epic, Extra, Lancair, Maule, Mooney,
Pilatus, New Piper, Raytheon (maker of Beechcraft aircraft),
Stemme, Symphony, and Twin Commander.
In addition, Lancair will have on display aircraft aimed at the
home-builder market, as will Glasair, Van's, and Velocity. And
Robinson Helicopters will showcase two of its models.
A complete list of all exhibitors at AOPA Expo 2004, including
those with aircraft on display, is available online.
"General aviation manufacturers — especially the
single-engine piston market — is one segment of the aviation
industry that managed to hold its ground during the recent economic
downturn and now stands poised to bounce back strong as the economy
rebounds," said Boyer. "AOPA Expo 2004 is an excellent chance to
see everything that this vibrant part of aviation has to
offer."
With more than 400,000 members, representing nearly two thirds
of all pilots in the United States, AOPA is the largest, most
influential aviation association in the world. AOPA has achieved
its prominent position through effective advocacy, enlightened
leadership, technical competence, and hard work. Providing member
services that range from representation at the federal, state, and
local levels to legal services, advice, and other assistance, AOPA
has built a service organization that is without peer to any other
in the aviation community.