History & Mission
“Making Colorado a better, safer, and more desirable place to fly.”
— The mission of the Colorado Pilots Association since 1972
Who We Are
The Colorado Pilots Association (CPA) is a Colorado Nonprofit Corporation founded in 1972. We are a statewide organization of over 700 pilots, aviation enthusiasts, and supporters of general aviation. From student pilots taking their first lessons at Front Range airports to seasoned mountain flyers crossing the Continental Divide, CPA brings together aviators who share a passion for flying in one of the most beautiful — and challenging — states in the country.
CPA is administered from Denver and governed by a Board of Directors composed of elected officers and appointed committee chairs, plus liaisons from aviation-related organizations and Area Representatives throughout the state. Officers are elected annually each November at our general membership meeting.
Our Four Core Objectives
Safety
Encourage aviation safety through symposiums, clinics, mountain flying ground schools, safety seminars, and coordination with the FAA. CPA’s safety programs help Colorado pilots fly smarter in our unique high-altitude, mountainous environment.
Growth
Promote the growth of general aviation through education, scholarships, and support for improved aviation facilities across Colorado. Our scholarship programs help the next generation of Colorado pilots take flight.
Public Service
Assist government agencies and the public on aviation matters. CPA’s advocacy work includes airport liaison representation, legislative tracking, and community outreach to protect Colorado’s aviation infrastructure.
Pilots’ Rights
Guard and protect the rights of pilots against unreasonable limitations on airport access, rising landing fees, and regulatory overreach. CPA monitors Colorado aviation legislation and speaks up when GA pilots need a voice.
What We Do
CPA is an all-volunteer organization run by pilots who care deeply about keeping Colorado’s skies open, safe, and accessible. Here’s what your membership supports:
Weekend fly-in trips across the West — Phoenix, Santa Fe, Sedona, Moab, and beyond. Group flying with experienced mountain pilots.
Free mountain flying ground school, instructor referrals, interactive mountain pass map, and density altitude tools for safe Rocky Mountain flying.
12 issues per year packed with Colorado aviation news, member stories, safety articles, fly-in reports, and event calendars.
The Barbo PPL Scholarship and Emily Howell Warner Scholarship help Colorado’s aspiring and advancing pilots.
Airport liaison reps across the state, legislative tracking, landing fee advocacy, and a voice for GA pilots at every level of government.
Practice area maps, accident analysis, density altitude calculator, WINGS events, safety tips, and “I Learned About Flying” stories.
CPA Presents video series, Lunch Bunch fly-outs, volunteer flight programs, classified ads, and a statewide network of pilots who look out for each other.
Connect with fellow CPA members across the state. Find pilots near your home airport, share local knowledge, and build lasting friendships.
Our History
CPA is Founded — Incorporated as a Colorado Nonprofit Corporation by a group of pilots committed to promoting aviation safety and protecting general aviation in the state. The founding mission: making Colorado a better, safer, and more desirable place to fly.
Growth & Advocacy — CPA grows to hundreds of members and establishes its role as the voice of general aviation in Colorado. Airport liaison representatives are placed at airports across the state to monitor and advocate for GA interests.
Mountain Flying Program — CPA launches its signature mountain flying ground school program, teaching pilots the skills needed to safely navigate Colorado’s challenging terrain, weather, and high-altitude airports.
Scholarships & Outreach — CPA establishes flight training scholarship programs to support the next generation of Colorado pilots. The fly-in program expands to destinations across the western United States.
Digital Transformation — CPA modernizes with a new website featuring interactive maps, ADS-B flight tracking, AI-powered planning tools, online membership, and digital access to Flight Lines. The organization surpasses 700 members.
700+ Members Strong — CPA continues to grow as the premier general aviation organization in Colorado — connecting pilots, advocating for their rights, promoting safety, and making flying in the Rocky Mountain State the adventure it should be.
Be Part of the Story
Whether you’re a student pilot, a weekend flyer, or a seasoned mountain aviator — CPA is your home in Colorado aviation. Student memberships are free.
Colorado Pilots Association
PO Box 200911, Denver, CO 80220-0911
(720) 441-3326