ORBAA News

2024 Scholarship Award Recipients and Golf Outing Success

Mike Smith — Fri, 16 Aug 2024 20:19:10 GMT

The ORBAA Board is proud to announce the 2024 Student Opportunity and Scholarship awards. Recipient bios can be found here!

This year features two new awards: a Citation SIC Type Rating courtesy of Flight Safety International and an ATP-CTP Course courtesy of CAE. We thank FSI and CAE for their generosity and continued commitment to the future of Business Aviation, especially in Ohio. We see only increased opportunity & partnership for years ahead.

The ORBAA board also thanks you, the membership, for your contributions & participation in the annual golf outing that allowed this year’s Scholarship pool to exceed any year prior. For that very reason, ORBAA was able to grant an award to every student interviewee this year, in recognition of the extraordinary strength of the group. We are also proud to announce that, thanks to your generosity, we were able to raise over $24,000 for the Scholarship Fund.

WE LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOU NEXT YEAR ON AUGUST 7, 2025 at Stonewater!

Advocacy Regional Roundtable Recap

Mike Smith — Tue, 28 May 2024 15:51:36 GMT

The Ohio Regional Aviation Association (ORBAA) hosted their second Regional Roundtable event of 2024 at Lane Aviation in Columbus, OH on May 23, 2024. The focus of the discussion was centered around our Advocacy pillar and coordinated by ORBAA’s Vice President and Advocacy Chair, Mike Christie of Global Jet Capital.

Around 50 members joined the event. Kristie Greco Johnson from the National Business Aviation Association highlighted the wins for business aviation in the FAA reauthorization and emphasized the importance of being active in promoting the economic impact, charitable activities and climate leadership of the business aviation community in light of recent press for climate activists and politics of envy. Matt Schnelle from the Ohio Aviation Association highlighted their efforts to support continued safe and efficient use of Ohio Airports through better funding and legislation.

In addition, attendees received updates on ORBAA’s own advocacy efforts Progress towards a fly-away exemption from sales tax for aircraft sales (planes would need to leave OH in a certain time period) continues slowly. A roundtable discussion followed the presentations covering various airport and industry topics of concern by members. Concerns regarding recent changes at Lunken Airport including lack of customs clearance and runway changes were raised.

The event concluded with a social gathering at Edison Brewery. To get more involved with ORBAA’s Advocacy efforts contact us at info@orbaa.org.

Our third and final Regional Roundtable event of 2024 will occur on June 20 in Cleveland. Registration is open and can be completed on the ORBAA site: ORBAA - ORBAA Roundtable: Cleveland.

ORBAA 2024: The Year Ahead

Mike Smith — Wed, 21 Feb 2024 22:00:51 GMT

Good afternoon Fellow ORBAA Members-

On behalf of the board of directors I hope you’re having an enjoyable winter season in the Buckeye State! The board has been busy preparing for this upcoming year and we look forward to seeing you all throughout the state. As we talked during the ORBAA Annual event in November, we continue to try and provide events and opportunities to connect with each other as we look to support and grow in this incredible industry.

This spring, look for Regional Roundtable events in Cincinnati, Columbus, and Cleveland. We are finalizing dates for these events and will pass along the full list in the next few weeks. These events are designed to foster connection and camaraderie in our local metro areas, along with providing a forum for discussion and education.

I’m happy to announce our ORBAA Golf Outing will be occurring August 8 in Cleveland, with the hangar party the night before. Please save the date!

We will also be hosting another ORBAA Annual Meeting in Columbus in November, with many more details to come.

If you’re interested in helping with or sponsoring our upcoming events please give me a shout at mjsmith@scopeair.com.

2024 is shaping up to be an excellent year, and I look forward to celebrating our communities, our state, and our industry together!

-Mike (and the ORBAA Board!)

2024 ORBAA Board

Mike Smith — Mon, 18 Dec 2023 16:01:13 GMT

The board election process concluded last Friday, please welcome your 2024 board members:

President

Mike Smith Scope Aircraft Finance

Vice President

Mike Christie Global Jet Capital

Dispatcher (FKA Secretary)

Lauren Siplivy QS Partners

Treasurer

Kirkey & Company- Contract Treasurer

At-Large Board Members

Ryan Avery Nationwide Insurance

Marie Crow Cleveland Jet Center

Deena Sullivan Corporate Wings

Elliott Taub Cardinal Health

George Whitehead Procter & Gamble

A special thank you to our board members who are rolling off including Evelyn Merkle, Jerry Eichenberger, and Rick St. Onge. We would not have been able to do it without your service!

We wish you a happy and enjoyable holiday season and look forward to continuing to help Business Aviation thrive and grow in the state of Ohio in 2024!

ORBAA Annual 2023: A recap of an incredible day in Columbus

Mike Smith — Tue, 21 Nov 2023 15:43:14 GMT

ORBAA completed a successful Annual Conference at the Nationwide Hotel and Conference Center on November 16, 2023. Over 80 attendees from our industry received compensation & industry updates, learned more on sustainability, and what changes to expect with our Ohio airports and airspace in regards to funding and future air mobility, respectively.

Additionally, ORBAA hosted our first Director/Chief Pilot roundtable this week. Flight department Leaders around the state were able to meet in person to discuss shared challenges and opportunities privately.

ORBAA remains committed to finding unique ways that we can continue to connect, grow, and thrive in the business aviation industry in the state of Ohio, and we look forward to a successful 2024 as we continue to enhance our offerings. A big THANK YOU to our sponsors who help make such events possible.

If you have any feedback or ideas on events and content, or would be interested in lending a hand in the new year, please reach out to info@orbaa.org.

Cleveland Regional Roundtable Recap

(Past member) — Wed, 24 May 2023 18:38:30 GMT

ORBAA hosted another successful Regional Roundtable in Cleveland on May 18. Speaking to membership was Mike Emmerich and Arnie Wolfe from the FAASTeam Cleveland FSDO. Not only did we discuss general safety concepts but we also covered some of the fundamentals of a robust SMS program. Several members participated in the conversation where we covered several aspects of business and general aviation. Both the Roundtable and post-roundtable happy hour were graciously sponsored by The Cleveland Jet Center.

We look forward to continuing the Roundtable series in the future. We hope you’re able to join us for our Columbus social event on June 30 at Edison Brewing: ORBAA - Events

If you’re interested in helping us plan future Roundtable or other ORBAA events, please reach out to the Board at info@orbaa.org.

June 14-18 Volunteer Opportunity for the Columbus Air Show

(Past member) — Mon, 08 May 2023 14:29:49 GMT

On June 16-18, the Columbus Air Show will occur at Rickenbacker International Airport in Columbus: Columbus Air Show . As part of the airshow, a Columbus non-profit, Home for Families (Home for Families), will be running the parking for the event and is looking for volunteers between June 14-18, including set up and traffic management related opportunities. The HFF group would appreciate any assistance ORBAA members are able to provide. If interested please reach out to Mike Smith at mjsmith@scopeair.com, and he will connect you with HFF to sign up for a time. We appreciate your support!

Cincinnati Regional Roundtable Recap

(Past member) — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 14:12:49 GMT

On April 26 ORBAA’s first Regional Roundtable of 2023 occurred in Cincinnati. Thanks to our gracious host, EJM, industry representatives from across the state and beyond were able to connect and discuss the pressing issues related to all things talent and human resources. Along with panelists Allison Moser from EJM, Amy Higgins from Park National Bank, and George Whitehead from P&G, the attendees shared in a true roundtable discussion of ideas, challenges, and opportunities with each other. Immediately following the roundtable, several ORBAA members joined together at Local Post to continue the conversation.

The Cincinnati Regional Roundtable is an example of ORBAA’s continued efforts to connect business aviation in Ohio, and create opportunities for members to learn from and help each other grow. The next Regional Roundtable will be on May 18 in Cleveland hosted by Cleveland Jet Center. We hope to see you there!

April 2023 Advocacy Update

(Past member) — Tue, 11 Apr 2023 16:19:41 GMT

First, I would like to thank Christian Pancake, Jerry Eichenberger, and Alaina Joseph for volunteering to help as we try to build out our advocacy capability. As a volunteer organization, it takes many hands to keep things moving forward.

Currently, we are focused on leveraging ties with like-minded organizations and starting to develop relationships with key people in state government. We have started a joint monthly call with NBAA, Ohio Aviation Association (OAA) and Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA). These three partners have dedicated paid staff who track legislative issues at local, state and federal levels. They keep us educated on current legislation and regulations. Currently, OAA is working to increase funding for airports at the state level to $20 million annually up from $7.2 Million (read more here on details and how you can help). Later this year, OAA and AOPA will be working on protecting airport access from encroachment of local development.

We are working on setting up meetings with the Chair (Zanesville airport), Vice Chair (Springfield- Beckley airport) and Ranking member of the Ohio House Aviation Committee to develop a relationship with the state legislature. The district for the Ranking Member is adjacent to Lunken Field. If you have a passion for advocacy and are based at Lunken, Zanesville or Springfield-Beckley; please reach out to us and we will include you in any meeting we get set up. After that we will be looking to map the districts of other committee members to airports where our members work and look for help for local point people interested in getting to know representatives with influence over state level aviation issues.

If you would like to help out, have questions or want us to consider working on a particular issue, please email us at advocacy@orbaa.org.

Thank you,

Mike Christie

ORBAA Advocacy Chair

ORBAA January Board Meeting Recap

Ryan Avery — Tue, 24 Jan 2023 19:33:56 GMT

Hello fellow ORBAA members! On behalf of the entire ORBAA Board, I hope your 2023 is off to a great start and you’re successfully and safely completing “winter operations”.

The ORBAA Board kicked off this year with a board meeting on January 19^th, welcoming new board members Elliott Taub and Lauren Siplivy. After a successful 2022 we look to further expand the opportunities to connect and grow together all around the state of Ohio.

We’ll soon be sending save the dates for spring and summer events near Cleveland, Cincinnati and Columbus, as well as our annual golf outing and the return of ORBAA Annual in the fall.

Our Scholarship efforts continue to grow and thrive, which was further supported by full board approval to double our individual scholarship award from $2,500 to $5,000. The scholarship application window will open this week.

As the old adage goes, ‘many hands make light work’. ORBAA’s efforts are only fully realized when we have the hands and brains of folks from all across the state helping us move forward. If you have thoughts to share or interest in helping with any of our committee or event work this year, please let us know. From university outreach, developing our current workforce, sharing best practices and beyond, we want to hear what’s important to you!

I wish you a safe and enjoyable winter, and look forward to seeing you in the spring!

Mike Smith

President, ORBAA

mjsmith@scopeair.com

Upcoming Opportunities to connect with ORBAA Members

Ryan Avery — Mon, 18 Apr 2022 21:10:41 GMT

Hello Fellow ORBAA Members-

As the signs of spring are emerging in Ohio I find it a great corollary to what we’re doing as an organization this spring. After two long years, we are excited to reconnect with everyone as we continue to support Business Aviation throughout the state.

In the next 5 weeks, we will all have an opportunity to connect with one another at two Happy Hours, one in Cincinnati next week, and the other in Columbus in late May.

Our first Happy Hour is next Thursday, April 28 in Cincinnati at Local Post, 3923 Eastern Avenue in Cincinnati. Sign up information is located here: ORBAA - April Happy Hour with Board Members in Cincinnati

The next will be in Columbus on Thursday, May 26, more details to come soon.

The entire board looks forward to seeing you in April, May, or whenever we are able to meet at other events down the road this year. Thanks again for your continued support of ORBAA!

Mike Smith, President

Ohio Regional Business Aviation Association

PS: Has your membership lapsed? Consider renewing today: ORBAA - Home

2020 ORBAA Scholarships Open!

John Ginley — Fri, 24 Jan 2020 16:22:25 GMT

ORBAA is proud to award two scholarships for $2,500 each to students working towards a career in Business Aviation! Our scholarship application window is now open until March 23, 2020. Please review the requirements at www.orbaa.org/scholarship and email scholarship@orbaa.org with any questions.

Ohio Advocacy Update

John Ginley — Fri, 26 Jul 2019 16:13:00 GMT

Ohio Advocacy Update (July 2019)

During the recent budget approval process, the Ohio House of Representatives proposed removing all exemptions and caps currently contained in the Ohio Sales Tax law that benefited the aviation industry. Many in the business aviation community, including ORBAA and many of its members, informed the Senate Finance Committee why the exemptions are in place and how they benefit the aviation industry in Ohio. Ultimately, the Senate was convinced and the their version of the budget reinstated all of the current exemptions.

Thanks to the efforts of many ORBAA members and the Ohio business aviation community, the current Ohio Sales Tax law that exempts maintenance and repair, the sale of flight simulators, and places a cap of $800 on the tax applicable to the sale of fractional ownership interests remains in place.

Wright Stuff Dispatch Scholarships

John Ginley — Wed, 26 Jun 2019 18:54:46 GMT

In sync with the ORBAA pillars, we are excited to share that Wright Stuff Dispatch is offering two $500 scholarship credits toward a dispatch course in the fall of 2019. Check out the flyer below for information and how to apply!

Thank you Bob Quinn!

John Ginley — Wed, 26 Jun 2019 01:25:56 GMT

Thank you, Bob Quinn, for your support of ORBAA and best wishes on a wonderful retirement!

Bob started with NBAA in 2006 as the Central Regional Representative and has been a 30+-year member of the Greater St Louis Business Aviation Association. He is a graduate of Purdue University with a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering and a Master’s degree in Industrial Administration. Bob leaned to fly during his college years but started his aviation career as a design engineer with McDonnell Douglas in 1968. Later, he worked for Trane Company and Emerson Electric in engineering and marketing positions. At heart though, his real passion was aviation. During his flying career, he has accumulated almost 17,000 hours with eight type ratings on his ATP plus an A&P with Inspection Authorization. The best part of his flying career was flying the array of large cabin Gulfstreams from the G-2 thru the G-550 and operating them in every continent except Antarctica. He is still flying his biplane and a CJ4 for a friend.

Bob, thank you for your years of dedication to our industry and sincere congratulations on an impactful career! ORBAA truly values your guidance and support. We appreciate your contributions to business aviation and applaud you on your well-deserved retirement. ORBAA hopes you continue to Fly High in your retirement!

Advocacy Notice: HB166

John Ginley — Fri, 24 May 2019 14:08:50 GMT

IMPORTANT ADVOCACY NOTICE

State budget proposal HB166 includes provisions to repeal three aviation tax exemptions that were passed in the mid-2000’s.

Cap of $800 on fractional aircraft sales.
Maintenance (making service and parts sales tax exempt).
Purchase of simulators.

These tax exemptions work in tandem to create a positive and vibrant environment for the aviation industry in Ohio.

Contact your local Senator to encourage retaining these tools that contribute to the growth of the aviation industry in the Birthplace of Aviation.

http://www.ohiosenate.gov/senators/district-map

2019 ORBAA Board Election

John Ginley — Thu, 10 Jan 2019 01:23:51 GMT

Your ORBAA Board is pleased to announce the results of the 2019 Board election. The newly-elected members will be installed at the completion of onboard training.

Your 2019 ORBAA Board members are as follows:

President: Lauren Behrens, FirstEnergy

Vice President: Scott Kennedy, Parrish O'Neill

Secretary-Elect: Evelyn Merkle, Nationwide

Contract Treasurer: David Kirkey, Kirkey and Co.

Board Members:

John Ginley, Advanced Drainage Systems

Richard Smith, Retired, NetJets

Board Member-Elect (and current): Grant Hundley, Global Appearance Partners

Board Member-Elect: Sarah Northcraft Spann, Aerlex Law Group

Board Member-Elect: Brian Finley, Textron Aviation

Congratulations to our new board members, and many thanks to those who served over the last year. We look forward to serving our ORBAA membership in 2019.

Stay Informed on HR2997

John Ginley — Wed, 11 Oct 2017 22:41:48 GMT

Read ORBAA's position on ATC Privatization, HR 2997, and learn more about the proposal by viewing our Advocacy subpage.

THANK YOU, Mark Myers

John Ginley — Tue, 15 Aug 2017 14:21:00 GMT

ORBAA would like to wish a fond FAREWELL and THANK YOU to our Advocacy Co-Chair Mark Myers. Mark has been an integral part of the ORBAA team since its inception. He has held many board positions, including Vice President, President, Immediate Past President, and committee chair positions. He has worked tirelessly behind the scenes at all our events, with special emphasis on our annual Scheduler and Dispatchers conference, one of his pet projects. Mark always offered us solid advice, a quick joke, and unmatched fundraising skills. His counsel will be missed by all.

Mark has accepted a job in Washington and is fulfilling a lifelong dream of moving to the West Coast. We wish him the best in his new position and much happiness with his new direction in life!

Act Now: ATC Privatization

John Ginley — Thu, 29 Jun 2017 17:48:00 GMT

Dear NBAA Member,

Last week, I urged the business aviation community to oppose efforts to privatize our nation’s air traffic control (ATC) system as proposed in H.R. 2997. In response to that call to action, thousands of letters in opposition were sent to Congress. However, we need to keep the pressure on and make clear that business aviation’s access to airports and airspace is threatened under H.R. 2997.

Recently, proponents of ATC privatization have been promoting myths that misrepresent general aviation and our nation’s ATC system. NBAA has taken each of those myths and provided the real truth about what ATC privatization really means for general aviation.

The Truth about ATC Privatization

Under H.R. 2997, business aviation’s access to our nation’s airspace and airports will be controlled by an unelected and unaccountable board with no Congressional oversight. Our only option to challenge future access restrictions will be to hire expensive lawyers and endure lengthy legal proceedings.

Our nation’s ATC system is the safest, most efficient, most complex and most diverse in the world – we simply cannot risk turning it over to a private board that could be dominated by the big airlines.

Oppose H.R. 2997 to Privatize ATC

By contacting your members of Congress today, you can send a message to lawmakers, and let them know you oppose H.R. 2997.

Thank you.

Ed Bolen

President and CEO

National Business Aviation Association

Ohio House Bill 26 UPDATE

John Ginley — Sun, 26 Feb 2017 22:58:09 GMT

OHIO HOUSE BILL 26 Update

ORBAA has received some questions from membership regarding the Ohio Fiscal Year 2018-19 Budget, specifically a provision within the Transportation Budget, House Bill 26.

In a effort to begin tracking the revenue from aircraft fuel, and modifying the motor fuel tax to include compressed natural gas, the budget language removed the exemption for aircraft, effectively making it subject to the motor fuel tax.

The department of taxation maintains that this was an interpretation error by the legislative services commission (and others reading HB 26), and it was not their intent to change the way aircraft fuel was taxed. While the department believes an amendment is not necessary to make this clear, Chairman McColley is drafting an amendment for the sub-bill to eliminate any uncertainty.

Procedurally, the bill must pass out of the House Committee and full House Chamber before the Senate Committee will take up the bill. The Senate will make any modifications it believes are needed. After the full Senate Chamber votes on the bill, any differences between the bills passed by the House and Senate will be worked out in Conference Committee. After the Conference Committee comes to agreement, the bill will be sent to Governor Kasich for his signature. The Governor has line item veto power to remove any provisions he is not supportive of. The budget must be signed into law by June 30, 2017.

This process is repeated for each of the budget bills. The transportation budget moves through this process more quickly as it is not as controversial as the main operating budget.

ORBAA will update its members as more information becomes available.

FAA announces $500 rebate incentive for ADS-B equipment

Jeff Poeppelman — Thu, 09 Jun 2016 20:14:13 GMT

Press Release

For Immediate Release

Date: June 6, 2016

Contact: Tammy Jones, Paul Takemoto or Alison Duquette

Phone: 202-267-3438

Rebate will help bring NextGen safety technology to airplanes now

WASHINGTON – Today on a national press call, U.S. Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx and Deputy Administrator Michael G. Whitaker announced a $500 rebate incentive for General Aviation (GA) aircraft owners who equip their aircraft with required avionics technology. Accelerating compliance is critical to ensuring that pilots, manufacturers, and retail facilities have adequate time and capacity to equip aircraft in a timely and efficient manner, ahead of a 2020 regulatory deadline.

Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) is a foundational element of the FAA’s NextGen program, which consists of a suite of technologies that are modernizing the nation’s air traffic control system. ADS-B transforms aircraft surveillance using satellite-based positioning.

“This announcement signals our commitment to NextGen, which has played an important role in ensuring that our airspace is safe and efficient for the American people,” said Secretary Foxx. “We are focused on achieving its full potential, and by working with our General Aviation community, I’m confident we can successfully integrate aircraft and technology into the national airspace system.”

The rebates will be available this fall, and the FAA will announce the specific date soon. In the meantime, the FAA has published information regarding the goals and structure of the program, and is encouraging aircraft owners to look at the available equipment on the market and to schedule an installation appointment with a qualified installer starting in the fall of 2016. Aircraft owners will only qualify for the rebate if the installation is scheduled after the FAA begins offering the rebates.

The FAA published a final rule in May 2010 mandating that aircraft flying in certain controlled airspace be equipped with ADS-B by Jan. 1, 2020. That airspace is generally the same busy airspace where transponders are required. Aircraft that fly only in uncontrolled airspace where no transponders are required, and aircraft without electrical systems, such as balloons and gliders, are exempt from the mandate.

“We’re calling on all aircraft owners who plan to fly in busy airspace to equip with ADS-B before the deadline,” said Administrator Huerta. “Owners who wait too long to equip may not be able to get an installation appointment before the deadline. This limited-time rebate provides an incentive for early retrofitting, and will help draw attention for the urgent need for owners to comply so that they can continue to fly their aircraft in 2020.”

The $500 rebate will help offset an owner’s cost to equip U.S.-registered, fixed-wing, single-engine piston aircraft with avionics that comply with FAA technical standard orders and meet the rule requirements. The FAA is not offering rebates for software upgrades for aircraft already equipped, for new aircraft, or for aircraft for which the FAA already has paid or committed to upgrade. The FAA will be able to distribute 20,000 rebates – one rebate per aircraft owner. The FAA is encouraging owners of fixed-wing, single-engine piston aircraft to apply as soon as the program is launched this fall because the rebates are available on a first-come, first-served basis for one year, or until all 20,000 rebates are claimed, whichever comes first. The FAA estimates that as many as 160,000 aircraft need to be equipped by the deadline.

“ADS-B provides the General Aviation community with increased safety, efficiency, and situational awareness,” said Whitaker. “We’re getting closer to the 2020 deadline, and we need 100 percent equipage in the required airspace to realize the full benefits of this NextGen technology.”

General aviation and air taxi aircraft equipped with ADS-B Out enjoy more efficient spacing and optimal routing in some non-radar environments, including busy airspace in the Gulf of Mexico, mountainous regions of Colorado, and some areas in Alaska. ADS-B improves life-saving search-and-rescuewith accurate and timely last-reported positions. General aviation pilots may also benefit from air traffic control services outside radar coverage.

The FAA is continuing to work with stakeholders such as the Aircraft Electronics Association, the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association, the General Aviation Manufacturers Association, and others to inform and educate the aviation community about the ADS-B requirements.

More information about equipping and the rebate program is available on our website.

NIFA SAFECON 2016

(Past member) — Tue, 03 May 2016 10:14:03 GMT

The National Intercollegiate Flying Association (NIFA) was formed for the purposes of developing and advancing aviation education and to provide an arena for collegiate aviation competition.

The 2016 SAFECON (Safety and Flight Evaluation Conference) is being held at the Ohio State University Airport May 9 - May 14. Go out and support!

Play Golf for a Good Cause!

Jeff Poeppelman — Mon, 15 Feb 2016 18:14:49 GMT

ORBAA member recognized as Living Legend

(Past member) — Fri, 05 Feb 2016 20:35:59 GMT

On the evening of January 22, 2016, Daniel A. Wolfe, Associate Vice President and General Manager of Aviation for ORBAA member Nationwide Insurance, was inducted into the Living Legends of Aviation. The award was presented to Dan and other new inductees which included Greg Feith (former NTSB Senior Air Safety Investigator) and Michimasa Fujino (Founder, President and CEO of Honda Aircraft Company) at the Beverly Hilton Hotel in Beverly Hills, California, where they have been held annually since 2007.

The Living Legends of Aviation is an award honoring achievements in the aviation industry given by the Kiddie Kawk Air Academy, a non-profit 501(c)(3) with a focus of dedication to developing youth’s interest in aviation. The Living Legends have all made significant contributions to many areas of aviation including innovators, astronauts, industry leaders and celebrity pilots. Jerry Lips founded the Living Legends of Aviation organization. In 2008, Kiddie Hawk Air Academy acquired the Living Legends of Aviation and the responsibility for the annual awards show.

Current Legends include: Buzz Aldrin, Paul Allen, Ed Bolen, Sir Richard Branson, Gene Cernan, John Travolta, Pat Epps, Edsel Ford II, Harrison Ford, Michimasa Fujino, Barron Hilton, Bob Hoover, Herb Kelleher, Clay Lacy, Maj. Gen. Carl McNair, Zoe Dell Lantis Nutter, Arnold Palmer, Dick Rutan, Bud Anderson, Sean Tucker and Steven F. Udvar-Hazy.

Past Legends include: Neil Armstrong, Forrest Bird, Tom Danaher, Ed Swearingen, Al Ueltschi, Wally Schirra and George McGovern.

NASA Glenn Research Center receives funding

Jeff Poeppelman — Thu, 17 Dec 2015 15:50:28 GMT

Portman Announces Full Funding for NASA Glenn in Cleveland

Included in the Omnibus Appropriations Bill

Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Rob Portman (R-Ohio) announced that the Omnibus Appropriations Bill includes full funding for the NASA Glenn Research Center in Cleveland.

“This was a hard-fought victory for the NASA Glenn Research Center and for the city of Cleveland," Portman stated. “The Glenn Research Center not only plays a key role in NASA's mission, but is also an economic driver for the local community and supports thousands of jobs. I'm pleased to have worked to secure this funding and will continue to work with the Glenn Research Center to ensure they can remain a leader in important aeronautics and space research and projects.”

“Clearly the proposed cut to the NASA Glenn Research Center was a huge threat to our regional economy,” said Joe Roman, President and chief executive officer of the Greater Cleveland Partnership. “Senator Portman and his colleagues stepped up and led the effort to push back on the proposed cuts and to position NASA Glenn for a successful future. This is a big win for Cleveland and all of Northeast Ohio.”

Funding for the NASA Glenn Research Center is found in the Commerce, Justice, Science budget. When it looked as though NASA Glenn funding could be in jeopardy, Portman worked with House and Senate appropriators to increase the Space Technology budget providing an increased opportunity for the NASA Glenn Research Center in Cleveland to receive much needed funding.

As a result of Portman's effort to secure increased funding for Space Technology, the NASA Glenn Research Center will now have access to the funds necessary to continue its Solar Electric Propulsion (SEP) program, an important priority for the Glenn Research Center and NASA’s overarching mission.

The Glenn Research Center leads the SEP project for the agency; SEP is leading the development of critical technologies to enable cost-effective new trips to Mars and to asteroids across the inner solar system, and also supports a variety of commercial spaceflight activities.

HB 386 - Wright Brothers Legislation

Jeff Poeppelman — Fri, 11 Dec 2015 01:43:48 GMT

Representative Perales, chair of the Ohio Aerospace and Aviation Technology Committee, introduces legislation that would put the Wright Flyer on on the The Great Seal of the State of Ohio.

http://www.daytondailynews.com/ap/ap/ohio/ohio-bill-would-add-historic-wright-flyer-to-ohio-/npZtG/

ORBAA Flight Plan - Edition 1 - January 2015

(Past member) — Thu, 29 Jan 2015 03:09:09 GMT

ORBAA Flight Plan The Official Newsletter of the Ohio Regional Business Aviation Association Edition 1- January 2015 We are proud to introduce the brand new ORBAA newsletter to you. This newsletter is designed to bring both current and prospective members up to date with the most recent developments and activities, relevant issues, and engagement opportunities that support Ohio Business Aviation through ORBAA. The Ohio Business Aviation Association (ORBAA) is a collective of Ohio’s Business Aviation companies and operators with a common interest in improving our industry through the three pillars of Advocacy, Workforce Development, and Training & Education. Further information can be accessed from our website at ORBAA.org.

Advocacy

The Advocacy team is led by the efforts of ORBAA Board Member Bob Tanner, as well as our retained legal team at Keggler, Brown, Hill & Ritter. ORBAA’s recent Advocacy efforts have led to a new US Customs stand-alone facility now under construction at CMH on the east end of Lane Aviation’s existing structure. This facility is expected to be operational by the end of 2015 and will benefit of all GA traffic that was formerly directed to the airline terminal to clear at Gate 46 into an area not designed to accommodate business aircraft travelers. ORBAA is currently united on an effort to oppose the AMS/ Federal Excise Tax issue that would heavily weigh on the aircraft management operators in our state. We encourage you to support our Ohio operators by contacting your representatives through this link. ORBAA supports Governor Kasich’s proclamation of Business Aviation in Ohio found here. ORBAA members are serving and connecting with several industry organizations including Ohio Aviation Institute, The Ohio Aerospace and Aviation Council, as well as Jobs Ohio. We encourage our members to strengthen these bonds that connect Ohio Business Aviation to the greater industry as well as legislators that can affect ORBAA membership interests.

Workforce Development

The second annual ORBAA Scholarship was awarded to Kent State student Carissa Marion at the 2014 OBATS event. Carissa will use the $2,500 award to further her flight training as she aspires to a flight career in business aviation. Congratulations, Carissa! In 2015, ORBAA is offering two $2,500 scholarships; one for a Pilot career track, the other for a Maintenance Technician career track. Proceeds from the June 2014 ORBAA Golf Outing will fund the Pilot scholarship, and ORBAA Member APEX generously donated $2,000 toward the Maintenance scholarship. Jeff Adelman is leading the selection committees for these awards as well as communicating the application materials found here to the Ohio colleges and technical schools. The awards will be presented to the recipients at the spring OBATS event in April. We are also proud to announce that ORBAA received the 501(c)6 charitable status in October 2014 and is now eligible to receive donations for scholarships and career development. Leadership is working on options to best engage our members and encourage participation in donating to these causes. Proposed actions include creating a donation category on membership renewal invoices as well as direct solicitation from an internal fundraising team. The Ohio State University has created the “Capstone Project” to research and analyze industry issues as a part of the classroom curricula. OSU approached ORBAA to solicit a topic and our Board is developing a workable industry project related to organizing and expanding ORBAA membership, as well as articulating the value of business aviation within Ohio. OSU will be working on this project over the spring semester and we will share the results as they develop. Member Dan Wolfe gathered a team that included ORBAA Board member Lisa Swartzwelder and other professionals from around the US to present a professional business aviation internship model at the 2014 NBAA Annual Conference in Orlando. ORBAA has many internship guidelines and materials to furnish to its members found here that we hope will encourage participation in this important development of future professionals for our industry.

Training & Education

ORBAA hosted four large events in 2014, including:

Spring Ohio Business Aviation Training Standdown (OBATS) in Columbus
ORBAA Golf Outing in Dublin
Schedulers & Dispatch Training Event in Columbus
Fall OBATS in Cincinnati

In 2015 the first OBATS event is planned for April 29, 2015. This event, hosted in partnership with Global Aerospace and their SM4 program, will be held on the campus of The Ohio State University at the Blackwell Inn. This year’s program will feature Don Chupp with Fireside Partners and will encompass a full day, in-depth examination on best practices in emergency response planning. Mark your calendars for this very special event! In addition to the April 29 OBATS/SM4 Event, ORBAA is also planning to host the second annual Schedulers and Dispatchers seminar in Columbus, OH as well as smaller regional events throughout the State. President Jeff Poeppelman attended the NBAA User Group Conference in San Antonio, TX in June. Jeff was able to network and benchmark best practices from among other NBAA user groups from around the country ways to return value to ORBAA. Leadership has approved continuing a budget item to continue ORBAA participation in the 2015 conference as well.

Administration and Resources

ORBAA has a new business address: 5207 Norwich St. Hilliard, OH 43026. This is the business address of our contracted accountant Dave Kirkey. Dave will be handling the ORBAA bookkeeping, taxes, and membership invoicing in our contracted Treasurer position. 2014 ORBAA quarterly Board meeting minutes can be found here. The new ORBAA Organizational Bylaws updated and ratified in November 2014 can be found here. The ORBAA Business Calendar of 2015 scheduled events can be found here. ORBAA creates many values to members for a very reasonable annual membership fee. Several values are highlighted in this document, and will serve as guidelines for communicating return on investment to prospective members. There is a new NBAA Business Aviation Fact Book with many good facts and resources released in November found here. ORBAA Leadership positions run a two-year term and are up for re-election in December 2015 for terms that begin in April 2016. ORBAA needs the strength of its members who possess high levels of leadership and commitment to industry to lead the future of our organization. Any interested members are encouraged to contact info@orbaa.org or any Board Member for further discussion on these upcoming positions.

ORBAA Contacts

There are many ways to contact the ORBAA Leadership including the info@orbaa.org email address that will reach the entire leadership team, or individual leader contact information found here. The ORBAA main website is at ORBAA.org. Thank you for your continued membership and partnership in ORBAA! We hope that together we can continue to meet the challenges within our industry and strengthen our businesses, professional bonds, and the business aviation industry within Ohio.

Ohio Governor Declares December 'General Aviation Appreciation Month"

(Past member) — Thu, 08 Jan 2015 03:00:20 GMT

By Alliance for Aviation Across America:

Today, national aviation organizations, commended Ohio Governor John Kasich for declaring December “General Aviation Appreciation Month.” In Ohio, general aviation accounts for $1.7 billion in economic activity annually.

“We thank Governor Kasich for his proclamation, which highlights the benefits of general aviation and local airports throughout the state of Ohio,” said Selena Shilad, Executive Director of the <a href="http://www.aviationacrossamerica.com/national-aviation-organizations-commend-ohio-governor-for-declaring-december-general-aviation-appreciation-month-2/" target="_blank">Alliance for Aviation Across America.</a> “General aviation supports our economy and also assists in healthcare services and disaster relief efforts across the country.”

“Ohio’s community airports are critical for the transportation of goods and services all across the state,” said Mark Baker, President and CEO of the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA). “We thank the Governor for recognizing the importance of general aviation in Ohio and throughout the nation.”

“Business aviation allows companies in Ohio to manage operations in multiple locations, get to far off plants and transport staff and supplies,” explained Ed Bolen, President and CEO of the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA). “We thank Governor Kasich for his proclamation and look forward to working with him and his staff on issues related to general aviation.”

“General aviation is a key component of our nation’s transportation infrastructure and economy,” said Jack Pelton, Chairman of the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA).

“We thank the Governor for his proclamation reinforcing Ohio’s long support of general aviation, and hope that it will increase awareness about this important part of our infrastructure and help inspire aviation interest among the next generation.”

Greg Principato, President and CEO of the National Association of State Aviation Officials (NASAO) stated, “Community airports in Ohio support local charities, businesses, healthcare providers and farms across the state and country. We thank Governor Kasich and the Aviation Administrator of the Ohio DOT, James Bryant, for their work to emphasize the significance of general aviation and community airports.”

“Across Ohio, general aviation and community airports help businesses connect with their customers and suppliers, and provide opportunities to compete globally and reach new markets,” stated Thomas L. Hendricks, President and CEO of the National Air Transportation Association. “NATA and our member companies in Ohio thank Governor Kasich for his continued support of general aviation.”

“Helicopters and other general aviation aircraft are vital for first-responders, disaster relief and law enforcement personnel across the United States,” said Matthew Zuccaro, President of the Helicopter Association International (HAI). “We thank Governor Kasich for recognizing the role of aviation in connecting our citizens and communities.”

To view the Ohio proclamation, click <a href="http://www.orbaa.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/Ohio_122314.pdf">here</a>.

ORBAA Golf Outing - June 27, 2014

(Past member) — Thu, 03 Jul 2014 02:02:07 GMT

With generous support from our sponsors, the first ORBAA Golf outing was held June 27 at the Shamrock Golf Course. Over 40 golfers participated in the 18 hole scramble where all proceeds benefited the 2015 ORBAA scholarship. Over $400 in prizes were awarded to the winners of our closest to the pin challenge, longest dive, longest putt, and the team low score.

During the lunch reception, Dan Boedigheimer, with Advanced Aircrew Academy discussed new training requirements corporate aviation departments are facing and offered solutions for complying with these requirements.

The ORBAA board would like to thank all participants and sponsors for supporting this event. This inaugural event paves the way for future charity offerings and will continue to bolster our scholarship offerings.

Second Annual ORBAA Scholarship Results Announcement

(Past member) — Fri, 27 Jun 2014 02:05:16 GMT

During the 2014 OBATS event held at the Hilton Downtown Columbus on April 24, the Second Annual ORBAA Scholarship was presented to Carissa Marion from Kent State University. Last year’s recipient Brian Finley presented the $2,500 award on behalf of ORBAA in testimony of the value of our Workforce Development pillar.

Carissa is from Greensburg, PA, and is a Senior at Kent State graduating in Spring 2015 with a degree in Flight Technology. She is active on the KSU Flight Team, as well as Women in Aviation, and the American Association of Airport Executives. Carissa has financed her Private license by working at an upscale dining restaurant, and is progressing with her Instrument rating. She has maintained Dean’s List grades, as well as winning four additional scholarships to assist with her flight training. Carissa aspires to a professional pilot career, and is currently working for the summer as a customer service agent at a FBO located at the Akron, OH airport. Proceeds from the OBATS were used to fund this year’s $2,500 award, proving the cooperative support of our fine organization and its three pillars of focus. We look forward to generating additional funding for the 2015 scholarship award through the ORBAA Golf Outing, and through donations that can be accepted as ORBAA completes its charity taxation status later this year.

Eric Black Vice President- ORBAA