Just two days after the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) issued a news release touting support for its continuing campaign against what it deemed “egregious FBO fees and denial of airport access,” Women In Aviation International (WAI), one of the largest among the 11 other groups listed in the document, has revoked its endorsement of the AOPA initiative.
“As a pilot myself, I am sympathetic to the financial challenges inherent in flying, but we also recognize that FBOs provide services crucial to our flying, as well as extending comforts which enhance general aviation operations,” said WAI president Dr. Peggy Chabrian.
A WAI spokesperson told AIN the organization changed its initial stance based on additional information it received after agreeing to attach its name to AOPA’s statement of principals.
AOPA’s release came after the FAA largely dismissed allegations the association made against two airports in a pair of Part 13 complaints. The association earlier withdrew a third complaint against Chicago-area Waukegan National Airport after the airport announced in December that it would offer free tie-downs for transient aircraft and a pedestrian gate to access the ramp, so passengers were not forced to transit the FBO.