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AOPA Fly-In Rochester, New York | September 11-12
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ABOUT ROCHESTER, NY

New this year! Expanded content, fresh Friday programming, new options, and exciting aerial activities. Join us for an incredible weekend of aviation fun!

Famously known as the home of Eastman Kodak, the first film for motion pictures, easy-to-use cameras for everyman, and the first digital camera, Rochester is not only an innovative town, but a picturesque one, too. We’ll end our fly-in season with a perfect time of year to visit on September 11 and 12. Fall foliage, anyone? Located just minutes from the Finger Lakes, Rochester is the metropolitan hub of this photo-worthy area. The nine lakes—so-named because their long shapes look like fingers—boast scenic drives, vineyards and wineries, seaplane excitement, and the home of aviation pioneer Glenn Curtiss. This could be your chance to check off that bucket-list item—fly over or visit Niagara Falls!

Tell us you're coming and save on your meal tickets! REGISTER

LEARN

BE A MORE INFORMED PILOT

About

Be a Better, More Informed Pilot

Whatever your knowledge or experience level, you’ll learn something new at our workshops and seminars led by some of aviation’s top experts. We’ll have plenty of educational content to choose from that will help you become a better, safer, and more informed pilot. Complete your AOPA Fly-In experience by getting an AOPA endorsement at any of our interactive workshops and seminars.

If you’ve been out of the cockpit for a while, learn how easy it is to get back in. Our Rusty Pilots program will get you current again—fast!

Join us at one of the two offered Pilot Town Halls where AOPA President and CEO Mark Baker will bring you up-to-date on AOPA’s latest initiatives, issues that impact your flying, and take your questions on what matters most to you.

Workshops

About Our Paid Ground School Workshops

Air Safety Institute – Ground School Credits

$99 in Advance or $120 at the door gets you all-day access for two full days!
Friday & Saturday
9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

GROUND SCHOOL WORKSHOP SCHEDULE -$99, two full days of content and a logbook endorsement for each session!

How would you like to walk out of a low-cost, in-depth workshop with an endorsement from AOPA for your logbook?

Not to be confused with our free seminars, these in-depth learning experiences will be at a professional “ground school” level of education. Offered in two, three-hour sessions on both Friday and Saturday, these workshops will provide an opportunity to roll up your sleeves and deepen your skills in important safety subject areas, provided by world-class presenters. You’ll leave each workshop with a logbook endorsement attesting that you've completed three hours of ground training applicable toward the Air Safety Institute’s Focused Flight Review or other flight training elements.

The Air Safety Institute’s Focused Flight Review qualifies you for FAA WINGS credit! The Focused Flight Review program was developed with and is recognized by top aviation industry partners with an intent to sharpen your skills, proficiency, and knowledge using carefully designed flight scenarios.

We are continuing our ever-popular workshops offerings this year. Purchase a “Workshops Pass” to attend our all-day Friday and Saturday Workshops, then pick from any of the four that are most interesting to you on both days.

New Ground School Workshops curriculum includes sessions covering:

Mountain Flying and Short Field Landings
Aircraft Maintenance for Owners
IFR Beginner and Refresher
VFR Advanced and Long Cross-Country Flying
IFR Advanced
Introduction to Formation Flying
Aerobatics and Upset Recovery

Note: Workshop titles and content subject to change.

Purchase now and SAVE! Registration is highly recommended.

Seminars

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FREE Seminars

Friday & Saturday

With dozens of free seminars, you’ll find plenty of relevant topics to help you remain current in the latest techniques, regulations, and safety information. Led by world-renowned industry experts, these 45-minute seminars will help you develop new skills, increase your proficiency, improve your decision-making, and enhance your situational awareness. Looking to fly more often and spend less? We have a seminar for that, too!

CHECK BACK FOR OUR FULL SEMINAR SCHEDULE

Rusty Pilots

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Rusty Pilots Seminar

Saturday, 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Getting back to flying is easier than you think. Join us for a fun three-hour seminar that will give you the information you need to get current again. You'll get credit toward the ground training portion of your Flight Review and leave with valuable take-home materials. Plus, attendees will be eligible for a chance to win a Lightspeed Zulu 3 headset. Click here for rules.

Free to AOPA members.

Not a member? Join AOPA to waive the non-member registration fee of $79 and get all the benefits of an AOPA membership for one year.

Register Now

Pilot Town Hall

Pilot Town Hall

Friday & Saturday, 11:00 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.

No AOPA Fly-In would be complete without a Pilot Town Hall to meet with AOPA President and CEO Mark Baker. Take advantage of this interactive forum to talk with him, share your thoughts, ideas, and ask questions. Learn about the latest developments in the general aviation industry and what AOPA is doing to keep GA safe, fun, and affordable.

EXPERIENCE 

FLY-IN ACTIVITIES AND EXHIBITS

About

Fly-In Activities & Exhibits

There’s so much to experience at an AOPA Fly-In!

Enjoy TWO FULL DAYS exploring the show, including the Exhibit Hall for all things aviation-related and a stroll through the Aircraft Display to see some of the most amazing aircraft – from the latest GA has to offer to rare vintage aircraft.

Don't forget to stop by the AOPA Village in the Exhibit Hall, meet your dedicated AOPA staff, and learn how to make the most of your AOPA membership. Fly-Ins offer fun for the whole family, including the Kid’s Zone where they can share in the excitement of learning about aviation!

Volunteer for one of our many airside or show side positions and get a behind-the-scenes look as you help produce the Fly-In. You’ll get interactions with our dedicated Outreach Staff and become an integral part of presenting the face of AOPA.

special events

Flightline Cookout

Presented by Jeppesen

Friday, 5:00 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.*

Join us for the Flightline Cookout, Presented by Jeppesen, under the stars on Friday night featuring the AOPA STOL Invitational you won’t forget! Spend a fun evening with family and friends enjoying drinks, camaraderie, entertainment, and amazing food. You’ll get an up-close look at the amazing flying skills of the AOPA STOL Invitational pilots as they demonstrate mind-blowing short field take offs and landings!

*Dinner food service begins at 6:00 p.m.

Cost: $20 in advance/$25 at the door (Children 12 and under - $10 in advance/$12 at the door)

Purchase your tickets in advance and Save!

REGISTER NOW & SAVE

See Details

STOL Invitational

AOPA is excited to bring you a Short Field Take-off and Landing (STOL) Invitational! While you relax at the Flightline Cookout, Presented by Jeppesen, let some incredibly talented pilots demonstrate backcountry flying techniques.

Interest in STOL and Backcountry flying is spreading across the nation and growing with annual competitions in Alaska and Texas. Experienced pilots use multiple aircraft to demonstrate short field take-offs and landings located near the airport infield, in close view of the spectators.

All AOPA Fly-Ins will include seminars discussing STOL techniques and Backcountry Flying Safety.

Texan Jimmie Gist, acting Aircraft Wrangler, orchestrates a STOL (Short Take Off and Landing) demonstration at the 2018 AOPA Fly In at Missoula.Missoula Airport (MSO)Missoula, MT
See Details

 

 

 

See Details

Exhibit Hall & Aircraft Display

Photography of the 2014 AOPA Fly In at Frederick, MD.

Exhibit Hall & Aircraft Display

Friday 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Saturday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

(Aircraft Display will be open until 4:00 p.m. on Saturday)

In celebration of AOPA’s 80th anniversary, we have expanded our Exhibit Hall to get you up close and personal with more of the cutting-edge technologies that make your flying safer and more fun. There’s no better way to see, test, and buy than at an AOPA Fly-In, where you’ll find many of aviation’s leading manufacturers and product suppliers under one roof. Get the scoop, directly from specialists in the field, on competitive aviation brands and what the future of flying will bring.

Stop by the Static Aircraft Display, featuring dozens of aircraft from manufacturers, type clubs, and local collectors. From the newest models to the rarest vintage aircraft and warbirds, there’s something for everyone.

Looking to purchase? Learn straight from the manufacturer about the latest innovations in airframes and avionics. Interested in restoration updating or upgrading? Speak with owners and experts to discover what they’re doing to preserve their vintage aircraft or to refurbish their general aviation fleet aircraft.

If you still need more incentive to attend, the Exhibitor Show Specials should propel you. These specials will only be good for IN-PERSON purchases from the select exhibitors listed on the download below. If you’ve been considering purchasing from one of these fine exhibitors, there will be no better time than at an AOPA Fly-In.

AOPA Village

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AOPA Village in the Exhibit Hall

Friday, 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Saturday, 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

The AOPA Village in the Exhibit Hall has something for everyone. Stop by to meet your friendly AOPA staff who look forward to meeting you and updating you on the many valuable resources available to members.

Our financing experts will show you how you can save money on purchasing an aircraft or pursuing primary or advanced training. Learn about our members-only Pilot Protection Services with critical legal and medical coverage to keep you flying. Discover our many courses, quizzes, and videos created to help you become a better, safer pilot.

Talk to AOPA Foundation staff about ways you can support important AOPA programs or have someone from the AOPA Airports and State Advocacy team help you identify your local Airport Support Network representative. Visit our You Can Fly program staff for information on initiatives designed to support you at every stage of your aviation journey.

And before you leave, be sure to shop for the latest AOPA gear at the AOPA Pilot Gear Store— bring home a cap, T-shirt, or commemorative souvenir.

Meet us at the AOPA Village:

Kids Zone

Kids Zone

Saturday, 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

AOPA Fly-Ins have cool things for kids, too, including the Kids Zone where they can share in the excitement of learning about aviation. Kids will find all kinds of entertaining activities, from interactive games to a fun play area .

Volunteer

Volunteers Have More Fun

One of the best ways to enjoy an AOPA fly-in is to volunteer. Whether it’s setting up the main stage area or marshalling aircraft, volunteering will give you a unique perspective on the day’s activities. It’s also an opportunity to work the show alongside AOPA staff members, meet new people, and make lasting connections. Not only will you enjoy the camaraderie of fellow pilots and aviation enthusiasts as you help AOPA present a fly-in in your local area, but we’ll feed you and give you a free AOPA Volunteer T-shirt and cap, too!

LEARN MORE ABOUT VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

Explore

Local Attractions

About

LOCAL ATTRACTIONS

Discover Rochester, NY, year-round and enjoy this thriving city. From Rochester's wide-ranging culinary scene, to visiting one of the many festivals Rochester hosts, or even stopping by the mall to explore a shopper's paradise, you're sure to find something to love!

From standing in the parlor where Susan B. Anthony was arrested for voting, to listening to great jazz on the streets, Rochester is filled with museums, attractions, music, and more.

We can go on and on to tell you why to visit Rochester, but we'd rather show you. Watch A-Z Rochester, the Place to Be.

REGISTER Now & SAVE ON FOOD

Fly-Outs

FLY-OUTS

Our team is busy planning exciting fly-outs for you to enjoy! Check back soon for more information!

Excursions

EXCURSIONS

We’re planning some fantastic excursions in and around Rochester, NY. Check back soon for more information!

LOCAL ACTIVITIES

LOCAL ACTIVITIES

The Sky Ride at Bristol Mountain provides a bird’s-eye view of autumn's richest hues. 

There's so much to see and do at The Strong National Museum of Play

Rochester is the birthplace of some of history’s greatest movements, including Women’s Rights and a hub of the Underground Railroad. Explore the homes and impacts of Frederick Douglass and Susan B. Anthony. 

Schedule

Friday

Friday, September 11, 2020

8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. Pancake Breakfast
9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m Free Seminars / Paid Ground School Workshops*
9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Aircraft Display / Exhibit Hall Open
11:00 a.m. - 11:45 a.m. Pilot Town Hall with AOPA President and CEO Mark Baker
11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Lunch: Food Trucks
4:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Exhibit Hall Happy Hour
5:00 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. Flightline Cookout, Presented by Jeppesen
Featuring AOPA STOL Invitational
6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Food Service
 

Saturday

Saturday, September 12, 2020

8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. Pancake Breakfast
9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Free Seminars / Paid Ground School Workshops
9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Aircraft Display / Exhibit Hall Open
11:00 a.m. - 11:45 a.m. Pilot Town Hall with AOPA President and CEO Mark Baker
11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Lunch: Food Trucks
12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m. Special AOPA STOL Invitational
4:00 p.m. Fly-In Ends

*Tuition required for Ground School Workshops. All seminars are free, with the exception of Rusty Pilots, which is free to AOPA members and $79 for non-members.

FOOD 

WHAT YOU CAN EAT AT THE FLY-IN

Flightline Cookout

Friday, 5:00 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.*

Presented by Jeppesen

Nothing beats the camaraderie shared among pilots when we gather to enjoy our favorite pastime. So, what better way to end the day than to party at the Flightline Cookout! It’s all about family, friends, food, and fun—plus, fantastic entertainment.

Don’t risk a sell out—purchase your tickets in advance.

*Dinner food service begins at 6:00 p.m.

Cost: $20 in advance/$25 at the door (Children 12 and under - $10 in advance/$12 at the door)

REGISTER NOW & SAVE ON FOOD

0819_bremerton_barnstormers

Pancake Breakfast

Friday & Saturday, 8:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m.

Start the day with a traditional pancake breakfast at the airport. Enjoy hot coffee, orange juice, water, sausage, fruit, and a delicious stack of buttermilk pancakes—all served up with a smile by AOPA staff and volunteers.

Cost: $7 in advance/$10 at the door (Children 12 and under - $5 in advance/$7 at the door)

REGISTER NOW & SAVE ON FOOD

San Marcos Fly Out

Lunch

Available for purchase onsite
Friday & Saturday, 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Food is a big part of any pilot gathering and you won’t go hungry at this show. You’ll find an assortment of local food trucks, some with gourmet choices, plus, vegetarian options and desserts. They’ll satisfy every appetite!

Register now and save on your meal tickets! Register

Travel

DIRECTIONS & OVERNIGHT STAY

Travel Directions

Fly or Drive

Flying to an AOPA Fly-In is the most enjoyable way to attend, but you don’t have to bring an airplane to participate. We will provide special flight procedures for pilots, and great directions and parking accommodations for drivers.

Flying

Sub 44 Lifestyle

Special Flight Procedures

Safety is a priority for any pilot, and flying into the AOPA Fly-In is no exception. Detailed special arrival and departure procedures will be developed and released approximately six weeks prior to the show, along with an FAA NOTAM to help guide you safely to the event.

Coming Soon!

Driving

Driving Directions

Put 1295 Scottsville Rd, Rochester, NY 14624 into your favorite GPS and follow event signs to parking.

Camping

Camping

One of the favorite aspects of an AOPA Fly-In is the chance to camp with your aircraft, and join other outdoors enthusiasts and pilots. Our Friday night Flightline Cookout, Presented by Jeppesen, will be complete with an exciting AOPA STOL Invitational aerial demonstration. This “don’t miss” event will be a highlight of your fly-in weekend! Camping fees apply. Camping is “primitive,” with limited shower facilities, and no hookups available.

Stay tuned for more details, coming soon!

Hotels

Nearby Accommodations

AOPA has contacted local hotels to let them know about our event. Some may offer discounts or other incentives to AOPA members. Please make your own reservations directly; AOPA does not assume responsibility for any hotel accommodations and provides these links only as a convenience to you.

Need to book a hotel room? Thanks to our partnership with Priceline, we are able to offer AOPA members discounts on hotels. Please visit www.aopa.org/hotels to check availability.

Stay tuned for more updates. Plan to book early to get the best rate!

Car Rentals/Taxis

Car Rentals/Taxis

Need to rent a car? Thanks to our partnership with multiple rental car companies, we are able to offer AOPA members discounts on vehicle rentals. Reservations are required, and rental cars will not be available at the airfield without prior reservations.

Enterprise – Commercial/FBO Availability

Hertz – Commercial/FBO Availability

Local taxi and rideshare options through Uber and Lyft are available.

AOPA Strategic Partners

Aero-Space Reports Aircraft Spruce Jeppensen SiriusXM Aviation AOPA Credit Card

AOPA Premier Partners

Pilot Workshops

AOPA Supporting Sponsors

Avis logo California Aeronautical University Rental Car Hertz logo
Partner logo JS firm Sportys