The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) is the largest and most influential aviation organization in the world. It was chartered in 1939 to keep general aviation fun, safe, accessible, and affordable. Just what is general aviation? Essentially, 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's membership of some 408,000 pilots and aircraft owners includes nearly two-thirds of all U.S. pilots. The association has achieved its prominent position through effective advocacy (see AOPA's Web site), enlightened leadership, technical competence, and hard work. It provides member services that range from representation at the federal, state, and local levels to world-class publications, Web sites and e-mail newsletters, advice and legal services, and unrivaled information resources.

For information on many of the general aviation aircraft featured in Microsoft Flight Simulator X that will enhance your Flight Simulator experience, visit AOPA's dedicated Web resources for Microsoft Flight Simulator X. If you're interested in learning to fly real airplanes,visit the AOPA Flight Training site-many Flight Sim users find the transition very easy.

For more information on general aviation and its significant contributions to American society, visit the General Aviation Serving America Web site.