FREDERICK, Md. — The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) has announced a major shift in its executive leadership as President and CEO Darren Pleasance steps away from day-to-day duties and transitions into an advisory role, effective immediately.
Pleasance, who became AOPA’s sixth president on January 1, 2025, will remain engaged with the organization in a strategic, behind-the-scenes capacity as the Board of Trustees begins a formal search for his successor.
Why the Change?
According to AOPA’s official statement, the leadership transition reflects organizational priorities requiring the CEO to be based full-time at AOPA’s headquarters in Frederick, Maryland. Pleasance, who has been commuting from his home in Bend, Oregon, has spent significant time traveling to support the association’s mission nationwide — but the Board determined a local presence is critical to meeting long-term strategic goals.
Jim Hauslein, Chairman of the AOPA Board of Trustees, acknowledged Pleasance’s contributions, noting that he brought “energy, perspective, and a deep commitment to serving pilots and protecting the freedom to fly” during his tenure.
Pleasance himself expressed deep appreciation for his experience leading AOPA, emphasizing the meaningful connections he built with members and staff across the general aviation community.
Interim Leadership
To maintain continuity, Chief Financial Officer Jill Baker and Senior Vice President of Membership Strategy and Growth Katie Pribyl have been appointed Acting Co-Presidents. Together, they will oversee daily operations, staff leadership, and strategic execution throughout the transition period.
AOPA’s leadership team has reaffirmed its commitment to core priorities — including pilot advocacy, aviation safety initiatives, regulatory engagement, and member services — as the Board conducts a thoughtful and inclusive search for permanent leadership.
Board Expansion with Aviation Leadership Experience
In tandem with the leadership change, AOPA recently announced the appointment of GA visionary Dale Klapmeier — co-founder and former CEO of Cirrus Aircraft — to the AOPA Board of Trustees. Klapmeier’s decades of experience advancing aircraft safety, innovation, and pilot engagement are expected to provide valuable perspective during the search for new leadership.
Community Reaction and Next Steps
While the broader general aviation community continues to discuss the transition’s implications, AOPA emphasizes that its mission remains unchanged. The organization plans a comprehensive CEO search process designed to align with the evolving needs of pilots and members in an increasingly dynamic aviation landscape.
