AOPA announces 2022 events

And while we cherish our past fly-ins, this year we have some new adventures planned. AOPA is excited to bring pilots together for our revamped aviation fly-ins. We are calling them Hangouts to better capture the sprit of these new events.

Pack your bags, fill your fuel tanks, and join AOPA in the Pacific Northwest and sunny Southeast as our destinations for flying in and camping out. The fun begins September 9 and 10 at Felts Field in Spokane, Washington, followed by our Hangout November 4 and 5 at Tampa Executive Airport in Tampa, Florida.

These events offer a mix of fun, food, learning, and a chance to renew old friendships and forge new ones. AOPA Hangouts will offer the ultimate experience for pilots and aviation enthusiasts looking for an adventurous escape back to the grassroots fun of GA flying. During these two-day informal events, attendees can pitch a tent, participate in educational seminars, swap stories, and enjoy friendly camaraderie around the campfire.

Stroll through aircraft displays, chat with aviation vendors, and connect with like-minded individuals while enjoying food trucks, live music, and entertainment. Attendees will also have the chance to meet with AOPA staff and socialize with top aviation influencers.

Of course, no AOPA event is complete without captivating aerial entertainment. Guests can expect an exciting afternoon of world-class aviators facing off in a high-energy STOL competition.

In short, we kept your favorite features of our past fly-ins and dialed up the emphasis on fun, aiming for a perfect balance of excitement and relaxation.

“We are thrilled to introduce these new Hangouts in 2022. While a departure from our normal big-scale events, pilots and aviation enthusiasts can bet on an unforgettable experience commemorating the fun and simplicity of GA flying,” said AOPA Director of Outreach and Events Elizabeth O’Connell. “We look forward to gathering with our members, and attracting new audiences who all share a passion for aviation. This will be a fly-in season to remember.”

The cost to attend the Hangouts will be $20, which includes admission for both days. Pilots are encouraged to check back on AOPA’s website for more information in the coming weeks.

In addition to AOPA’s two Hangout events, we will be back with our Aviator Showcase in 2022. Join us at Fort Worth Alliance Airport n Fort Worth, Texas, on November 17 and 18 for an exclusive gathering with the industry’s leading experts in avionics and cockpit technology, flight planning and weather resources, and aircraft manufacturing and sales.

Our Aviator Showcase will feature an exhibit hall, aircraft display, and educational seminars presented by event sponsors. If you’re looking to upgrade or still searching for the perfect aircraft, local services such as paint shops, avionics manufacturers, and aircraft detailers will be there to help. You can also talk to aviation finance professionals, insurers, and dealers about buying the aircraft of your dreams.

The cost to attend the AOPA Aviator Showcase will also be $20.

Our 2022 events will have something for everyone whether you’re interested in the latest and greatest gadgets or just want to spend a weekend in the great outdoors enjoying the rich surroundings of GA airports and their local communities.