In a February 4th news release, the AOPA Board acknowledges President and CEO Darren Pleasance for his leadership over the last year, while he was deeply engaged with AOPA members across the country. Darren had taken the time to listen to AOPA members’ experiences, understand their challenges, and represent their voices to AOPA leadership and staff.

However, in the same news release, the AOPA Board ousted Darren, deciding that the AOPA CEO role should be based full-time in Frederick, Maryland, at AOPA’s headquarters.

Whenever a change like this is made, questions arise about underlying and mitigating circumstances. You can see the news release below, a video from Dan Millican, creator and co-host of the YouTube channel Taking Off, with his perspective, and a SocialFlght conversation with Darren on 2/17/2026.

Video from Dan Millican, creator and co-host of the YouTube channel Taking Off, with his perspective

SocialFlght conversation with Darren on 2/17/2026.

Dan Millican, creator and co-host of the YouTube channel Taking Off, gives an update with more back-story, and provides some action items, including:
– Email MembersAssist@AOPA.org with your request to remove your voting proxy.
– Email MemberServices@AOPA.org explaining your displeasure with the Board of Directors’ management.
– Attend the May 12th Annual Board Meeting, RSVP Erin.Keller@AOPA.org