Kodiak owners band together

The Kodiak Owners and Pilots Society was founded this year by three pilots: John Hunt, a former senior sales executive for Quest Aircraft who continued in his role with Daher after that company purchased the Idaho airframer, along with the Kodiak type and production certificates, in 2019; Mark Brown, the owner of 11 Aviation and former chief demonstration pilot for Quest and Daher who has logged more than 8,000 Kodiak hours; and Brett Ekblom, a Kodiak owner.

The trio introduced the nascent organization to fellow pilots and Kodiak owners in July at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh in Wisconsin, and the inaugural KOPS Fly-Out and Convention held October 3 through 5 at the JL Bar Ranch, Resort, and Spa in Texas quickly sold out, drawing 11 of the approximately 360 Kodiaks in service, and their owners, pilots, and family members.

“This inaugural event exceeded all expectations and truly captured the spirit of what makes the Kodiak community so special,” said Brown, in a news release. “Seeing eleven Kodiaks lined up on that airstrip, with owners sharing stories and skills through contests and clinics, was a testament to the aircraft’s enduring appeal. We’re just getting started. KOPS is poised for tremendous growth, and we’re excited to spread this passion worldwide.”

The National Business Aviation Association quickly welcomed KOPS into the NBAA Owner-Pilot Association Coalition, and Hunt expanded on the new group's plans to offer training programs, insurance partnerships, and other owner resources.

“The Kodiak has a truly unique DNA, and this exceptional community of owners deserves a home built on the same principles as the aircraft itself—one built to do good. When we first introduced KOPS to fellow owners at Oshkosh just 74 days ago, the enthusiasm was immediate. This weekend’s public launch and historic turnout confirm what we knew then—the Kodiak community was ready for something built by owners, for owners.”