Virginia Aviation Business Association
The Voice of Business Aviation in Virginia
Industry News
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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~
As President of the VABA, Bud plays a key role in organizing Aerospace Day and the annual Aviation, Aerospace, and Advanced Air Mobility Legislative Reception. These events raise the profile of aviation and aerospace by bringing together industry leaders, legislators, and government agencies during the General Assembly Session.
As Lieutenant Colonel in the Virginia Wing of the Civil Air Patrol, Bud's strong commitment to supporting cadet programs and aerospace education reinforces the focus on the future workforce and leadership of the aerospace industry.
Finally, Bud demonstrates his leadership through his legislative work by advocating for and securing funding for aviation education, flight training, and A&P training. He leads efforts to reduce taxes on aircraft parts and maintenance across the Commonwealth and plays a key role in reestablishing the Virginia General Assembly Aviation and Aerospace Caucus (V-GAAC) to educate lawmakers on issues critical to the industry.
The VABA congratulates the other award recipients Keith Meurlin, Director’s Award; Nicholas Sabo, Airport Manager of the Year; and Carley Walker, Person of the Year Award.
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The VABA is a 501(c)6 non-profit organization which serves as the voice of aviation business in Virginia. Our mission is to promote the development of aviation business within the Commonwealth of Virginia and represent the Aviation Industry with the Commonwealth of Virginia’s legislature. We also strive to enhance the development of infrastructure of general aviation and regional airports in support of the Commonwealth and support continued improvement of airport and flight safety operations of all Virginia aviators.
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.
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.