The Air Charter Association (The ACA), currently in its 71st year, is forming a new group of industry professionals to help set the direction of The ACA and shape the industry's future. The group, whose members will all be under the age of 35, is named Next Generation (NextGen). Part of the group's responsibilities will be to showcase and support the industry's varied, rewarding and challenging career opportunities, from air charter brokers, flight dispatchers, sales/marketing professionals to pilots, engineers, cabin crew and air traffic controllers, as well as ground positions such as airport personnel and baggage handlers.

Members of The ACA's NextGen group include representatives from across the association's widespread membership, including Air Charter Scotland, Air Partner, Avinode, Business Air News (our very own rising star Brad Wright - congratulations!), Signum Aviation, Simply Jet and Volanteus.

Chairman Kevin Ducksbury says: “The ACA team is really excited about this new initiative; we are looking to the future industry leaders to start making their impact now. Members will get the opportunity to have their voices heard, and to shape future policies based on their understanding of today's world, the career opportunities, society's demands and user behaviours.

“Our industry is led by highly professional people of all ages, and we hope this new group will be able to add tangible value and fresh thought leadership to the association. NextGen members will be a regular part of the discussion on our future and will help us make our inclusive industry a great career choice for all.  We'd also like members to help The ACA with our social responsibilities, including our charity work.”

The first official meeting between members took place virtually on 22 October.