Virginia Aviation Business Association
The Voice of Business Aviation in Virginia
David Frash and Greggory Hodge Elected to Virginia Aviation Business Association Board of Directors
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Richmond, VA – The Virginia Aviation Business Association (VABA) is delighted to announce the election of David Frash, NetJets, and Greggory Hodge, AvDyne AeroServices, to the VABA Board of Directors, effective March 18, 2025.
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David Frash, State & Local Government External Affairs Director, NetJets, brings to the VABA Board a wealth of legislative experience with a demonstrated history working on behalf of industry within multiple state legislative bodies.
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Greggory Hodge, Vice President, AvDyne AeroServices, brings exceptional management and technical skills to the VABA board, by overseeing the operations and quality control for the nation’s largest service-disabled, veteran-owned, minority-owned Aircraft Maintenance and Overhaul company.
Jim Hopkins, Chairman of VABA, shared his enthusiasm: “We are excited to welcome David Frash and Greggory Hodge to the VABA Board of Directors. David's extensive experience with NetJets and Greggory's background with AvDyne Aeroservices bring a wealth of practical knowledge and industry insights. Their expertise in operational efficiency, customer service excellence, and innovative aviation solutions will be invaluable as we work to advance our initiatives and strengthen Virginia's aviation sector.”
VABA President Bud Oakey emphasized the significance of the new board members: “The VABA is fortunate to have individuals like David Frash and Greggory Hodge join its Board. Their extensive backgrounds with NetJets and AvDyne AeroServices bring experience that extends beyond Virginia. Their deep understanding of best practices in aviation and aerospace is a great addition to our Board an will be instrumental in shaping future public policy and legislation. This expertise adds to the VABA moving forward, positively influencing public policy and addressing the industry's needs in the Commonwealth.”
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About VABA
The Virginia Aviation Business Association is dedicated to promoting and protecting the aviation and aerospace industry in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Through advocacy, education, and collaboration, VABA works to ensure that aviation businesses have a strong voice in legislative and regulatory matters affecting industry. For more information, please visit https://www.thevaba.org.
Virginia Aviation Lifetime Achievement Award Presented to VABA President Bud Oakey
~Honoring those who understood the challenges in aviation
and sought to further the industry~
The Virginia Aviation Awards were presented at the Virginia Aviation Conference on Wednesday, August 7. Nominations are sought from across the Commonwealth by the Virginia Department of Aviation (DOAV). Award recipients are recognized in categories such as 'Airport Manager of the Year,' 'Person of the Year,' and the coveted 'Lifetime Achievement Award.' In addition to these honors, Greg Campbell, Director of DOAV, presents a 'Director’s Award.'
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The VABA is proud to announce our own Daniel “Bud” Oakey, President of the VABA, received the Lifetime Achievement Award, recognizing his significant impact in the aviation industry.
Virginia Aviation Parts Sales Tax Exemption Survey
VABA played a key role in establishing the Virginia Aviation Parts Sales and Use Tax Exemption in 2017. This policy was designed to enhance the competitiveness of Virginia's aviation maintenance and repair facilities with like businesses located east of the Mississippi and beyond.
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Last fall, VABA completed the Virginia Aviation Parts Sales Tax Exemption Survey. This report evaluates the economic impact and outcomes of the Virginia Aviation Parts, Engines, and Supplies Tax Exemption, passed in 2017, enacted July 1, 2018, and reenacted with modifications in 2021. The report examines survey data from industry stakeholders, outlines economic benefits, and provides recommendations for the program’s future.
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At the request of VABA, during the 2025 Virginia General Assembly Delegate Kerrie Delaney, Centreville, and Senator Bill DeSteph, Virginia Beach introduced companion bills in the House of Delegates and the Senate. ​HB1729 and SB942 were the cornerstone of VABA’s efforts for the extension of the sales and use tax exemption for aircraft components, including parts, engines, and avionics systems used in the maintenance and repair of aircraft. Delegate Chris Runion, Bridgewater introduced a like bill to HB1729 which was merged into the Delaney bill. Through much maneuvering and support by many industry stakeholders the tax exemption is extended for five years to June 30, 2030. Virginia historically places sunset dates on tax preferences to intentionally review and exemption or credits effectiveness in meeting economic goals. Having extended the extension for five years provides certainty and dependability to industry, ensuring continued investment in Virginia maintenance, repair and overhaul facilities.
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