
With a membership base of more than 413,000, or two thirds of all pilots in the United States, the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) is the largest, most influential aviation association in the world. AOPA has achieved its prominent position through effective advocacy, enlightened leadership, technical competence, and hard work. Providing member services that range from representation at the federal, state, and local levels to legal services, advice, and other assistance, AOPA has built a service organization that far exceeds any other in the aviation community.
General aviation encompasses all aviation activity except for scheduled airlines and the military--an incredible four out of every five aircraft takeoffs in the United States each day! AOPA was chartered in 1939 to keep general aviation fun, safe, accessible, and affordable.
You don’t need to be a real-world pilot to join AOPA. If you’re a flight simulation enthusiast, AOPA has valuable benefits for you too!

Membership is just $39 per year, and includes:
- Free download of a virtual Cessna Cardinal for Flight Simulator X! As a member, you’ll have free access to a virtual version of the "Catch-A-Cardinal Sweepstakes" aircraft modeled in incredible detail by Flight1 Software!
- Automatic entry in AOPA's Catch-A-Cardinal Sweepstakes. If you're the lucky winner, you’ll get the keys to a REAL, fully refurbished Cessna Cardinal with all the latest upgrades!
- 12 issues per year of AOPA Pilot or AOPA Flight Training magazine. Keep up to date on all the hottest issues in general aviation and flight training.
- Instant answers from AOPA's Pilot Information Center. Call 1-800-USA-AOPA and talk to an aviation specialist for advice on buying and maintaining aircraft, flight training, or any other aviation-related question.
- Access to "members-only" features of the AOPA Web site. You’ll be able to use exclusive online flight planning and weather tools, access AOPA’s Airport Directory Online, subscribe to the AOPA ePilot newsletter, and access the Pilot Information Center and forums.
- Access to AOPA Air Safety Foundation Courses and Seminars. You can take advantage of a variety of free online safety courses or live in-person seminars sponsored by the Air Safety Foundation.
- Access to AOPA Member Products. Take advantage of specially-negotiated insurance, financial and pilot services for members and support AOPA in the process. Revenue from all AOPA Member Products is reinvested to fund AOPA's daily advocacy efforts and member benefits.
- And more!
Yes, I want to join AOPA today!
Photos © Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association, and are used here with permission. For general aviation photos you can see and download, see AOPA’s
Online Gallery.