Friends---

This year, NGPA proudly celebrates 35 incredible years, growing our circle from a handful of pilots into a respected and influential voice in the aviation community. Our mission has always been clear: to build, support, and unite. Through millions in scholarship awards, hundreds of community events, career development programs, mentorship opportunities, and more, NGPA has become a pillar of the aviation community - making it possible for LGBTQ+ aviators to fly out of the closet with the confidence that we belong in aviation.

In Provincetown earlier this month, surrounded by a sold-out crowd of attendees at our annual Cape Cod Classic, I shared how NGPA has shown up for me throughout my time as a member. Whether it was in the aeronautical science tutoring lab, a pep-talk the night before a checkride, or an introduction that would open doors, NGPA has been part of my journey since the beginning. This organization has shaped me in so many ways – as I know it has for you as well. While we look back over our past 35 years, take a moment to do the same, and consider how NGPA has been a copilot along the way.

Speaking of Cape Cod, a special thanks to our Event Committee Volunteers & staff for putting on an incredible weekend for over 250 members. Highlights included an all-new schedule of activities, special visits from Boston Med Flight and the Coast Guard, and more than a dozen member aircraft on the ramp - including a brand-new Cirrus flown in especially for the event. Congratulations to our Queen of the Fleet winners Jason S. & Joel J. (Best Decorated) and Ed Z. (Favorite Aircraft). My heartfelt thanks to everyone who helped us raise over $45,000 during the weekend! Your generosity fuels the NGPA, and we could not do it without your support. We appreciate this year’s corporate sponsors: Piedmont Airlines, Total Investment Management, Cirrus, and Thales.

Also in September, NGPA had the opportunity to bring our voice to the Regional Airline Association Conference, where we joined leaders from WAI, OBAP, and RTAG on a panel (moderated by GoJet Airlines CEO Rick Leach) advocating for stronger corporate partnerships and underscoring the vital importance of groups like NGPA in creating inclusive workplaces. These conversations move the needle, and I’m grateful that NGPA’s voice continues to be heard in spaces that shape the future of our industry.

As we continue our 35th anniversary celebrations, keep an eye out for our commemorative logo, special merchandise, and stories from NGPA’s history that remind us of the trailblazers who came before us. Most importantly, look for opportunities to get involved - whether it’s at one of our upcoming national events, through your local chapter, or by simply reaching out to connect with a fellow member.

I look forward to seeing many of you at our Aviation Inclusion Summit and Student Summit this November as we continue celebrating our legacy and future of the NGPA.

With Pride,

Justin