ForeFlight Partners with IAOPA Europe to Offer Discounts for General Aviation Pilots in Europe
ForeFlight and IAOPA Europe are happy to announce a partnership providing exclusive discounts to AOPA members across the 30+ European countries represented by IAOPA Europe. Eligible members will receive 15% off individual ForeFlight subscriptions, Jeppesen charts purchased through ForeFlight, third-party chart add-ons, and more – all available through the ForeFlight website.
ForeFlight simplifies the flying experience for European pilots with integrated, all-in-one capabilities for both VFR & IFR flying. Going beyond traditional chart viewers and route planners, ForeFlight serves as a comprehensive flight app that supports pilots at every stage.
From detailed flight planning and real-time weather updates to advanced charting and inflight support, ForeFlight offers an intuitive suite of features designed to enhance your flying experience.
ForeFlight’s commitment to improving flight safety, efficiency, and situational awareness aligns closely with IAOPA Europe’s mission to support and advance general aviation across the region.
To take advantage of this exclusive offer, click the banner below or visit this Foreflight page to validate your AOPA membership before purchasing or renewing any subscription. *Restrictions apply.
All IAOPA Europe deals in one page
With Foreflight as the latest addition, IAOPA Europe now offers a significant list of strong partners providing exclusive discounts to members of our European affiliates. These include Foreflight, Jeppesen, SafeSky and Topmeteo - all carefully selected so they fit the AOPA purpose of making flying safer and better.
You will find the full lists of member benefits and how to obtain them here:
https://www.iaopa.eu/memberbenefits
Validate your IAOPA Europe Membership online
With a growing list of member benefits we are working to make access to the benefits as smooth as possible. We therefore now provide an online validator where you can check that your membership number provided by your national AOPA is correctly registered so that it will be recognised by our partners providing the discounts.
You can check your membership number using this page: https://www.iaopa.eu/verifymymembership
Please note that if your membership is not found then you should contact your national AOPA, who will be able to register your details correctly.
Ensure FAA Compliance with AOPA’s Registered Agent Service
New FAA Regulation Requires U.S. Agent for Service
A significant regulatory change by the FAA now requires all individuals holding FAA certificates who have a foreign address and no U.S. physical address on record to designate a U.S. agent for service. This rule applies to those seeking or maintaining certificates, ratings, or authorizations under 14 CFR parts 47, 61, 63, 65, 67, or 107. Importantly, this requirement does not extend to entities—only individuals are affected.
Understanding the potential burden this regulation places on pilots, aircraft owners, and aviation professionals, AOPA US has developed a Registered Agent for FAA Mail Service. This initiative provides a seamless solution for international certificate holders to comply with the new requirements.
How AOPA’s Service Helps You
AOPA’s Registered Agent Service offers a comprehensive package ensuring that you remain in compliance with FAA regulations while avoiding the risk of missed communications. The service includes:
• A dedicated U.S. Agent address for FAA correspondence.
• Guidance on designating AOPA as your U.S. Agent for Service.
• Scans of all FAA correspondence sent directly to your email.
• Secure online access to your FAA-related documents.
• Document forwarding, including replacement certificates or aircraft registrations, to an address of your choice.
• Special discounted pricing for IAOPA affiliate members: $79 per year (compared to $99 for non-members).
Avoiding Compliance Issues
Failing to comply with this new rule could have serious consequences. Pilots, aircraft owners, and mechanics who do not designate a U.S. agent for service risk missing critical FAA communications, which may result in regulatory noncompliance, loss of privileges, or other legal complications.
The FAA’s final rule, published in October, cited the need to reduce the costs associated with international mail delivery. The agency estimated that serving notices to approximately 115,000 certificate holders residing outside the United States was costing nearly $600,000 annually. This change ensures that all certificate holders receive timely official notices, particularly those involving enforcement actions and safety-related matters.
As from July 7, 2025: Current certificate holders who have a foreign address and no U.S. physical address on record must designate a U.S. agent for service or risk invalidation of their certificates.
The Benefits of AOPA’s Service
For those frequently traveling or maintaining multiple residences, AOPA’s Registered Agent Service offers added peace of mind. The service ensures that critical FAA correspondence is received, securely stored, and forwarded as needed, helping international pilots stay compliant and informed at all times.
For more details on the Agent service requirement please see that article from AOPA US.
Major Discounts for Visiting General Aviation Aircraft in Türkiye!
Exciting news for General Aviation pilots! AOPA Türkiye has secured significant cost reductions for visiting aircraft under 2000 kg MTOW, making Türkiye a more accessible destination for private pilots. After extensive negotiations, new landing and parking fees have been implemented as of March 2025, significantly reducing the financial burden for light aircraft operators.
Easier and More Affordable GA Travel to Türkiye
Historically, Türkiye posed financial challenges for GA pilots due to high fees based on a minimum aircraft weight of 20 tons. However, thanks to AOPA Türkiye's efforts, these costs have been dramatically reduced, opening new opportunities for private pilots to explore the country.
What’s New?
Previously, a 1,000 kg aircraft paid €200 for landing and €64 per day for parking at Group 1 airports, while at Group 2 airports, the same aircraft paid €124 for landing and €32 per day for parking. As of March 1, 2025, the new fees are significantly lower. At Group 1 airports, the landing fee is now €10, with daily parking costing €3.10. At Group 2 airports, the landing fee is €6.20, and daily parking is €1.60. The approach fee is standardized at €56 across all airports, and through AOPA’s agreement with ACM Air Handling, the handling fee is now €50.
A permit is required to enter Turkish airspace, which remains valid for three years. AOPA members can receive direct assistance with the application process, while non-members can find information through authorized companies. Additional details are available on the AOPA Türkiye website.
AVGAS is available at most airports, with an approximate price of €2.50 per liter, including VAT. Additionally, a small number of private airports in Türkiye offer free landing and parking, though pilots are encouraged to check regulations in advance.
These changes mark a major step forward in creating a GA-friendly environment in Türkiye. AOPA Türkiye remains committed to advocating for further improvements, ensuring that pilots enjoy a seamless and cost-effective flying experience. If you’re planning a trip to Türkiye, now is the perfect time to take advantage of these new discounts and discover the beauty and hospitality of the country from above.
Flying to the United Kingdom
Flying to the UK has not become any easier. As of January 1, 2025, all aircraft must have an active CO meter in the plane. The administration has been expanded with an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) and we hereby provide a brief overview of the websites where the relevant information can be found and how an application should be submitted.
The gendec website is providing good information. Please note that this is not valid for the CTA (Channel Islands, Isle of Man and Ireland). Make sure that a copy of the application and the authorization is carried on board.
From April 2, 2025, an ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) must be applied for in addition to the GAR. The easiest way to obtain the approval via the UK ETA app that you can download on your smartphone. The authorization is valid for 2 years or for as long as the passport provided is valid.
It is useful to know a number of abbreviations/basic principles:
CTA: Common Travel Area = United Kingdom, Channel Islands, Isle of Man and Ireland
Gov.UK,sGAR = only to be used for flights to the UK.
Note, there is a different procedure for the Channel Islands. (https://www.submit-general-aviation-report.service.gov.uk/welcome/index )
More information can be found at:
Arriving and departing to and from the EU without an EU passport:
Administrative changes are also in the works for non-EU residents. Non-EU passport holders (or those from Switzerland, Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway) will need to use the so-called EES (Entry and Exit System) to enter the EU or travel outside the EU. The system is currently being developed and is expcted to be operational from October 2025. For more information.
Iseolake Airfield in Italy fights for its future and needs your support
We are once again reaching out to the aviation for your help. Iseolake Airfield, a cherished and environmentally sustainable GA hub in northern Italy, remains under threat—not due to safety or regulatory issues, but because of a prolonged legal and administrative stalemate.
Although Italy’s civil aviation authority, ENAC, has confirmed that the airfield meets all legal requirements from an aeronautical standpoint, the local Municipality continues to block operations with targeted ordinances that disrupt our activities. There is growing suspicion that these actions are not merely bureaucratic obstacles but are instead driven by real estate interests eyeing our green, undeveloped land—one of the last open spaces between the town and the shores of Lake Iseo.
Despite this the airport is not giving up. They have launched a petition to bring the case directly to the President of the Italian Republic, Hon. Sergio Mattarella. The goal is to collect at least 5,000 signatures from across Europe to highlight the injustice and raise awareness at the highest levels. As of today, they already have over 3,500 signatures. With your help, they hope to reach the goal.
Garmin Introduces GCO 14 CO Detector fulfilling the UK Safety Mandate
Garmin has taken an important step in aviation safety with the launch of the GCO 14 carbon monoxide detector for aircraft. Designed to actively monitor CO levels in the cockpit, the GCO 14 offers an effective solution to a well-known but often overlooked hazard. From January 1, 2025, the United Kingdom has required all piston engine aircraft operating in its airspace to be equipped with an active carbon monoxide detector.
Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless, and highly toxic gas. It can enter the cockpit undetected, posing a serious risk to pilots and passengers alike. The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has cited several incidents—and at least two fatal accidents—linked to carbon monoxide poisoning in general aviation. These cases underscore the need for reliable detection systems that provide immediate alerts.
The GCO 14 stands out for its ability to integrate with Garmin avionics, such as the GTN Xi navigators, GI 275 flight instruments, and TXi flight displays. The sensor can be mounted remotely and configured to show CO levels on a dedicated screen or within custom data fields. This setup allows pilots to respond rapidly in case of rising CO concentrations—an improvement over basic systems that rely on passive indicators.
IAOPA present at AERO 2025 in Friedrichshafen
IAOPA EU will be present at the AERO 2025, Europe’s most important general aviation trade show. The AERO takes place from April 9 to 12, 2025 in Friedrichshafen, Germany. This internationally renowned event remains the beating heart of the general aviation world, drawing pilots, manufacturers, aviation authorities, innovators, and stakeholders from across the globe. Now in its 30th edition, the 2025 show promises to be the biggest yet, reflecting both the resilience of the sector and its increasingly dynamic innovation ecosystem.
A Pulse Check on the Industry AERO is not just an exhibition—it’s a barometer for the future of general aviation. From light aircraft and turboprops to electric aviation and hybrid propulsion systems, the event offers a comprehensive overview of where the industry is heading. A strong focus this year will be on sustainable aviation technologies, including hydrogen-powered aircraft, eVTOLs, and advanced avionics for safer, cleaner, and more efficient flying. Startups will showcase groundbreaking innovations in the dedicated AERO e-flight Expo, while major players like Piper, Diamond, Cirrus, and Garmin will present their latest offerings. AERO is also a key platform for legislative and regulatory discussions. With new CO detection mandates, developments in EU airspace integration, and technological certifications on the horizon, the 2025 edition will again host panels and forums that connect regulators, pilots, and manufacturers in meaningful dialogue.
As always, IAOPA Europe will have a prominent presence at the show. Our team will be available at the IAOPA stand to meet members, exchange ideas, and advocate for the interests of general aviation pilots across Europe. We look forward to discussing topics such as airspace access, airport preservation, environmental policy, and upcoming EU legislation affecting GA. IAOPA will also co-host a series of briefings and roundtables throughout the week, focusing on practical issues such as border-crossing procedures, flight safety, and upcoming regulatory changes. These sessions provide a valuable opportunity for members to ask questions and get direct insights from both IAOPA and invited aviation authorities.
Save the Date: IAOPA’s 31st World Assembly heads to Frankfurt in 2026
The 31st World Assembly of IAOPA will take place in Frankfurt, Germany, from September 29 to October 2, 2026
Held every two years, the IAOPA World Assembly brings together aviation professionals, industry leaders, and passionate pilots from around the world. The newly appointed President of IAOPA, Donald Pleasance, will of course be present. ‘I’m especially looking forward to attending my first Assembly and engaging with affiliates and colleagues to advance our shared mission: protecting and promoting the freedom to fly.’
Germany last hosted the Assembly in 1993, and AOPA-Germany is proud to once again welcome the global aviation community. “We’re delighted to host the IAOPA World Assembly in Frankfurt,” says Prof. Elmar Giemulla, President of AOPA-Germany. “Beyond the important technical discussions, attendees will enjoy a rich cultural program exploring Frankfurt and the historic spa town of Bad Homburg. Sightseeing flights over the scenic Rhine-Main region and a hangar dinner featuring local cuisine are also on the agenda.”
The event venue will be the Steigenberger Hotel in Bad Homburg.
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If you have any news or things that you would like to share with pilots in other countries - for instance if you organize a Fly-in that might be of interest or if there is news about airports or new rules and regulations in your country that other pilots should know.
Please don't hesitate to send all your news to me: Gerrit Brand | Netherlands | email: newsletteriaopaeu@hotmail.com, telephone or whatsapp + 31 6 50831893
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