GA'S Premier Convention And Trade Show Scheduled For October
21-23
The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association returns to Long Beach
(CA) for AOPA Expo 2004, October 21-23. Long a favorite with pilots
for its convenience, Long Beach boasts attractions such as the
Queen Mary, the Long Beach aquarium, museums, and fabulous ocean
vistas.
Expo kicks off on Thursday, October 21, with the first of three
free daily general sessions. FAA Administrator Marion Blakey has
once again been invited to speak at one of the sessions.
Traditionally, the general session on Saturday is a chance for
members to hear from Phil Boyer and key AOPA staff on the important
issues facing pilots and what is in store for AOPA members during
"Meet Team AOPA." Past general session topics have included the
future of aircraft technology and airport preservation.
Giant exhibit hall and static display will showcase the latest
aircraft and equipment
After each day's general session, the exhibit hall opens with
500 industry exhibits showcasing some of the latest technology in
GA. Pilots can speak with knowledgeable experts, test and compare
products, and shop for a wide variety of items from headsets to GPS
receivers to aviation apparel.
A short, free shuttle bus ride away at Long Beach Airport, some
70 aircraft will fill the static display. Adam, Aviat, Cessna,
Cirrus, Diamond, EADS Socata, Lancair, Mooney, Pilatus, The New
Piper Company, Robinson Helicopters, and Tiger Aircraft will all be
there. The complimentary transportation service between the
convention center and the static display area at Long Beach Airport
will run every 20 minutes.
The place of honor on the static display ramp will go to the
AOPA Win-A-Twin Sweepstakes grand prize, a better-than-new 1965
Piper Twin Comanche. By the time Expo starts, the Sweepstakes Twin
Comanche will have undergone a complete makeover, from the inside
out, including a new interior, completely updated and upgraded
panel, speed modifications, and a custom designed paint scheme.
Wide Range Of Safety And Educational Seminars Offered
Expo-goers will have more than 75 opportunities to attend
seminars on topics such as:
- How To Save Your Life in an Aircraft Accident
- Single Pilot IFR
- Affordable Flying
- Fly-In Destinations in the West
- Defensive Flying
The AOPA Air Safety Foundation will offer a full slate of
programs, including a brand-new seminar that will debut during Expo
entitled Weather Wise: Practical Tips and Tactical Tricks. It's the
first truly practical look at weather from a pilot's perspective.
ASF will also offer the classic Pinch-Hitter� program each
day for non-flying companions.
"Educational opportunities abound at this year's Expo," said
AOPA Sr. Vice President Karen Gebhart. "Whether you're a new pilot
or have been flying for several years, there are dozens of
opportunities to improve your knowledge, skills, and safety."
As educational as Expo 2004 promises to be, it will be a lot of
fun, too. On Friday night, guests will party aboard the sensational
Queen Mary, moored permanently in Long Beach Harbor.
Saturday night, the Grand Finale Banquet will feature gala
entertainment. Two coveted awards will be handed out that night as
well. AOPA will present the J.B. Hartranft and Laurence P. Sharples
Awards, respectively, to the government official and the individual
who did the most during 2003-2004 to advance the cause of general
aviation.
ANN's Daily Aero-Linx (04.16.24)
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