SPECIAL REPORT - AOPA in Transition: A Conversation with Darren Pleasance

About this episode

Matt Jolley interviews Darren Pleasance about the recent changes at AOPA and the future of general aviation.

WARBIRD RADIO - The 17th season of Warbird Radio is almost ready for takeoff, but some stories can’t wait. In this special report, Matt Jolley sits down with Darren Pleasance for a candid conversation in the wake of the recent announcement from the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA). Over the past year, Pleasance has been one of the most visible leaders in general aviation, and the news of change at the organization has sparked serious discussion throughout the aviation community. Beyond the immediate headlines, a larger question is emerging: what comes next for AOPA? If leadership believes the president should be closer to headquarters, many members are asking whether the Board of Directors should also move closer to reflecting the membership it represents. At a time when the freedoms protecting general aviation have never been more important, the need for a strong, unified voice has never been greater. In this special report, you’ll hear a preview of Matt’s conversation with Pleasance. The complete interview will be released as part of the 2026 season of Warbird Radio , which begins February 10th, 2026. This is a conversation about leadership, representation, and the…

People in this episode

Host: Matt Jolley

Guest: Darren Pleasance

Topics covered

• AOPA
• general aviation
• leadership
• aviation community
• future of aviation

Keywords

• AOPA
• general aviation
• leadership
• aviation
• Matt Jolley
• Darren Pleasance
• Warbird Radio

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association, Warbird Radio

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