The National Air Transportation Association (NATA) has expressed its sincere appreciation for Ryan Waguespack's faithful service to the association and dedication to furthering the causes of its members, following his recent decision to transition from full time executive vice president to senior advisor, effective 30 June, 2022.

“Ryan has been and will continue to be an important connection between the association and the aviation business industry. He has brought unmatched energy, enthusiasm and industry insight to NATA's efforts for many years and has worked tirelessly to make meaningful progress on multiple fronts,” says president and CEO Timothy Obitts.

Waguespack joined the NATA leadership team in November 2018 as senior vice president of aircraft management, air charter services and MROs, and was later promoted to executive vice president. In both roles, he advanced a number of programmes and efforts by leading the charge to end illegal charter activities worldwide, raising awareness of the value of aviation businesses to communities surrounding GA airports, overseeing the expansion of NATA's training programme platform across multiple industry segments and helping hundreds of aviation businesses navigate financial and regulatory relief programmes.

A popular presenter at international, national and state conferences, Waguespack spoke on aviation safety; the risks of illegal charter activity; workforce development, retention and recruitment; airport infrastructure and the future of flight; leadership and professionalism; and a host of other priority industry issues. He also spearheaded NATA's General Aviation Advancing America tour, which highlights the essential services and economic development that general aviation airports offer to communities across the US. His visits to more than 80 general aviation businesses in over 15 states kept the lines of communication open between NATA and its members, especially during the time of uncertainty and challenges wrought by the Covid-19 pandemic.

“The executive team is grateful that Ryan has selflessly agreed to continue his support of NATA's membership and staff as senior advisor in the coming months as we advance our internal and external strategies for continuous improvement and growth,” adds Obitts. “Although his full time employment at the association will soon end, his engagement in and focus on fostering a vibrant and healthy ecosystem for all in the industry will live on. The entire NATA staff looks forward to furthering Ryan's efforts alongside him in this new role.”

NATA honoured Waguespack's achievements during its annual meeting of the members, held in conjunction with the NATA Aviation Leadership Conference, earlier in June.