A new voice for the charter market has launched with the formation of the U.S. Private Aviation Association (USPAA). A national membership organization devoted exclusively to the Part 135 private air charter industry, USPAA expects to play a vital role in representing the interests of U.S. charter air operators.
“USPAA aims to elevate industry standards, foster cooperation, and drive progress as a dedicated voice for Part 135 private air charter operators,” said USPAA chairman Dann Standard of Bravo Air in Augusta, Georgia. “It is our priority that we advocate for fair regulations and policies that promote safety, growth, and innovation in our industry.”
Charter operations in 2020 accounted for more than 11,000 aircraft in U.S. skies and contributed substantially to general aviation’s $47.4 billion contribution to the economy, as reported by the FAA’s August 2022 report titled Economic Impact of U.S. Civil Aviation.
“As we continue to climb out of Covid’s economic dip, we anticipate significant growth in private aviation beyond pre-pandemic levels in the coming years,” Standard added.
The new association has opened full registration to all private charter operators with a Part 135 certificate. Associate memberships are open to individuals, businesses, and industries that support the private air charter segment.