New Initiatives Launched by Revamped Oregon Pilots Association

Jun 3, 2026 | News

AURORA, Oregon — The Oregon Pilots Association (OPA) has completed a formal restructuring designed to modernize its advocacy and educational outreach for pilots across the Pacific Northwest.

According to OPA Secretary and Board Member Ryan J. Birr, the organization was restored as a mutual benefit association in June 2025.

This move was intended to provide a “balanced counterweight to the complex regulatory and legislative challenges facing general aviation today,” he said, noting the revamped organization is for all of the aviation community, from student pilots and flight schools to mechanics and more.

To complement its advocacy work, the OPA launched the Oregon Air Safety and Education Foundation, a non-profit educational charity to manage scholarships and safety initiatives.

The organization’s 2026 roadmap, referred to by officials as the “Short-Term Radar,” includes several member-focused projects:

  • Chapter Expansion: Collaborating with local groups to form new OPA chapters.
  • Legislative Outreach: Increasing the organization’s presence in regulatory affairs.
  • Explore Oregon: Launching a web-based airport passport program.

“The restoration is complete — now it’s time to fly,” Birr said.

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