NEW CHAIR FOR GENERAL AVIATION ADVISORY NETWORK

The Federal Liberal and Nationals Government today welcomed Mr Andrew Andersen as the new Chair of the General Aviation Advisory Network – a forum where industry representatives from the general aviation sector work together to respond to challenges.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said Mr Andersen is a passionate advocate for general aviation reform and holds a wealth of experience.

“The members of the Network are selected based on their skills and expertise in the aviation industry and come from a cross-section of the diverse general aviation sector. This includes training, manufacturing, maintenance, sport and recreation, rotorcraft and fixed wing aircraft, aerial applications, remotely piloted aircraft systems and medical operations,” Mr McCormack said.

“Mr Andersen is the Vice President Pacific Council of the International Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA). He is an AOPA past-president and co-chair of the industry organisation Australian Strategic Air Traffic Management Group’s Satellite-based Augmentations Systems subgroup.

“Mr Andersen has held a pilot’s licence for more than 30 years, owns a Cessna 182 and is a highly respected and very experienced general aviation representative.

“I look forward to continuing to work closely with Mr Andersen and the General Aviation Advisory Network to ensure Australia’s general aviation sector remains viable and safe.”

Mr McCormack thanked Dr Martin Laverty for his work as the former Chair of the Network.

“Dr Laverty led the Network for the first two years while he was Chief Executive of the Royal Flying Doctor Service, providing a solid foundation for the progression of a variety of topics and I wish him well in his future endeavours,” Mr McCormack said.

Dr Laverty has since left the Royal Flying Doctor Service and is currently the Secretary General of the Australian Medical Association.

More information about General Aviation Advisory Network is available at www.infrastructure.gov.au/aviation/general.