What you should know about AOPA

[watkykjy]

What is A.O.P.A. - S.A. (Incorporating A.A.F.S.A.) ?

The Aviation Action Forum (AAF) was formed during a General Aviation representative body during an awareness campaign in reaction to masses of new and escalating fees imposed by the Parastatal privatized organizations, SA CAA, SA Weather Services, ATNS & ACSA. The AAF obtained a "mandate" from the General Aviation community by virtue of 5600 respondents to a petition published in World Airnews Magazine. The AAF was formally founded during a convention at Tempe Aerodrome in April 2004. AAF founding members originally included the Aeroclub of South Africa (later withdrawn), the Commercial Aviation Association of South Africa & the Aircraft Owners & Pilots Association.                           

The purpose was to present a consolidated body and a united front in negotiations on fees and policies otherwise unilaterally imposed by the Governmental 'outsourced' agencies. Due to fundamentally differing founding principles, the various aviation bodies represent different facets of aviation. CAASA for instance mainly represent corporate & commercial aviation interests. Aeroclub essentially represent mainly 'sport & recreational' flying and has 11 subdivisions ranging from Experimental Aircraft, Parachuting, Paragliding, Gliding to Micro & Model Flyers.                           

To speak in "one voice" on  issues of common interest affecting all aspects of aviation, e.g. fuel, the various organizations meet regularly to find common ground. This takes place through the united SA General Aviation Council. The concept is that the SA General Aviation Council would combine the interests of all on particular issues and formulate a single proposal to send a single mandated delegate to represent common issues.                           

A.A.F. was essentially a voluntary organization and with its original main aims and objectives achieved, merged with the Aircraft Owners & Pilots Association (AOPA). The allied organization AOPA-AAF is run on contributions from participants of the General Aviation community comprising mainly "Private Aircraft & Helicopter Owners & Pilots" involved in "Private & Private Business" aviation activities.                            
AOPA was established 60 years ago shortly after World War II by veterans & pilots wanting to impart an enthusiasm for General Aviation in South Africa. AOPA International is represented in 60 member countries and in the USA alone has 450 000 members. The benefits of belonging to AOPA-AAF are therefore to become part of a 60 year old aviation inheritance & legacy, whilst getting the dynamic initiative of the new AAF incorporated. Without representation, the governing agencies can and will implement rules, regulations, fees & policies literally at will. Joining AOPA-AAF brings a new cohesion & continuity in an otherwise fragmented GA community.                           

Direct benefits are therefore scant, but indirect contribution & participation can bring about savings of literally millions per year to the GA community. It is your voice and a platform of mutual deliberation. It is involved in initiatives in getting across border support from fellow aviators in neighboring countries and elsewhere in Africa.

What do you get for your money?

Representation and participation in genuine attempts to render General Aviation once again economical & safe in South Africa. To boot, you will receive a year's subscription of World Airnews Magazine, if not already subscribed. The magazine is also the official mouthpiece of AOPA-AAF. Donor Members will receive a year's subscription of AOPA international magazine. Other benefits include access to special portals on the forum where AOPA-related discussions will take place, and will allow you to electronically have your say in this great hobby/career that is flying. You will also have access to available legal opinions from Management members with legal background. AOPA-AAF is also negotiating for a year's subscription to the AOPA International Magazine for donor status members. Future planned initiatives include lodge & car rental rebates, once the organization has sufficient membership to negotiate these.   

How much does it cost?

You may choose 3 types of membership:
Silver: R350-00 per anum.
Gold:  R1000 sponsor.
Corporate: R3000 or more sponsor.

As a registered and paid memeber, you will automatically gain access to the forum, where you can make yourself heard and do your bit to make flying SA better, safer, more enjoyable.

How do I apply?

Download the attached spreadsheet file at the bottom of this thread and complete it in full.  Proof of payment can then be either faxed to Ingrid at the number below or an email sent to her confirming the payment.
 

For more info you can contact Koos Marais here:

Fax No.              : 0866340322 Attention: Koos or Ingrid Marais - Secretary
Phone No.          : [012] 8090038
Cell                   : [072] 22005973
Physical Address  : 373 Queens Crescent Lynnwood 0040
Postal Address    : Suite 20 Private Bag X 30 Lynnwood Ridge 0040
E-mail                :kosie@iburst.co.za



Thank you

AOPA-SA