A new aviation-based trade organization has formed in Washington, D.C. to represent a network of U.S. professional flight training providers.
The National Flight Training Association (NFTA) will now represent flight training providers that seek a unified voice on industry matters that may impact flight academies. NFTA was founded to focus on the interests of the many flight training organizations in the country.
CEO Lee Collins, a former career commercial airline pilot and flight training professional will lead the new group. Collins is an accomplished industry leader who has held many leadership roles, including president of an airline industry trade association. He has a successful record in airline safety and aviation legislative and government affairs that span more than two decades.
RELATED STORY:
Improved pilot training program yields promising results
“There are more than 600 FAA-termed ‘Pilot Schools’ in the United States; yet, there is a void in the conversation when it comes to actively including these flight training academies in national discussions on crucial issues impacting aviation in the United States,” Collins said.
“With the National Flight Training Association, organizations who help train the next generation of pilots will have a seat at the table and a voice in Washington,” he said. The ongoing pilot shortage has made it clear that the aviation industry, which is critical to the U.S. economy, is in a fragile state and needs direction from a variety of stakeholders, including flight training organizations of all sizes. Legislation that impacts the flight training industry must be informed, in part, by that industry to fully understand its ramifications.”
The NFTA has five founding board members that have been elected to serve a three-year term.
Nayda Cattin– Vice President of Cirrus Aviation and the NFTA Vice President, Government Affairs
Bill Heckathorn– President and Founder of Ignite Flight Academy and NFTA Vice President, Membership
Ed Comisky– Designated Pilot Examiner and President, Echo Charlie Aviation and NFTA Secretary/Treasurer
Christopher Schoensee– President and Owner of Paragon Flight Training and NFTA Vice President, Marketing
Captain Troy E. Wheeler, Jr– President, Lanier Flight Center, and NFTA Board President
“The time has come for the Flight Training Industry to assume its necessary place as a leading stakeholder in the aviation world,” Wheeler said. “Our leadership team is without rival, and we intend to have an immediate impact on issues involving our nation’s critical aviation infrastructure.”
The first year for the organization will focus on critical issues, intended to produce the safest, most efficient and cost-effective training for future pilots. Collins said the agenda is strong and the NFTA is positioned to act immediately to pursue its issue-driven goal.
“NFTA will represent our members’ best interests with a strong and united voice in the national dialogue,” Collins said. “We will be aggressive in our timelines and a trusted partner with other organizations, regulators, and our legislative bodies to effect real change now.”
NFTA Board
“For more than 10 years, Congress has called for the industry, along with the FAA, to produce the world’s finest aviators, and do so quickly to meet demand, while simultaneously using technology to maximize efficiency and reduce costs,” he said.
The NFTA has already amassed over two dozen members. Many flight training academies are encouraged to join, to have a vote and voice in the national aviation conversations.
The new group was formed by industry leaders in 2022 and is a consortium of U.S.-based flight training providers and professionals, working for the betterment and advancement of the aviation industry and to advocate for the interests of its members.
Contact
Name: Haley Davoren
, Digital Content Manager
Company: GlobalAir.com
Website: https://globalair.com
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 502-456-3934
©2023 GlobalAir.com, Haley Davoren. All rights reserved.
Recent Comments