WASHINGTON - U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., today received the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) Freedom to Fly Award in recognition of his support for general aviation.

“I am honored to accept the ‘Freedom to Fly’ award from the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association,” Wicker said. “General aviation provides much-needed support for essential air services in our rural communities. I will continue to be an advocate for Mississippi’s rural airports while working to improve the aviation experiences of all Americans.”

Wicker has been a longtime supporter of general aviation and rural airports in Mississippi. In June, Wicker supported the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Reauthorization bill that included an amendment he sponsored to guarantee federal support for rural airports. Wicker also targeted support for rural airports in a hearing on the effects of privatizing air traffic control.

Founded in 1939, the AOPA represents the largest aviation community in the world and supports education and advocacy for general aviation, which includes all civil aviation operations other than scheduled air services or air transport for hire.

Attendees at today’s award presentation included:

• Mark Baker, President & CEO, Aircraft Owners & Pilots Association (AOPA)
• Jim Coon, SVP, Government Affairs