About the MPPA
Professional aviation in service of the story.
The Motion Picture Pilots Association was founded in 1997 by a group of concerned motion picture aviators at the urging of industry and government.
Our mission
Safety, standards, and a responsible voice for our profession.
MPPA brings entertainment aviation professionals together around a clear purpose: protect people, elevate the work, and strengthen cooperation between aviators, productions, industry organizations, and government.
“Safety does not occur by chance. It is a responsibility each of us accepts to protect ourselves and our fellow workers.”
- 01
To promote aviation “Safety” within the motion picture, television and entertainment industries.
- 02
To promote the interest of “Aviators” working in the motion picture, television and entertainment industries. (“Entertainment Aviation Profession”)
- 03
To establish, conduct and maintain such activities which promote higher aviation standards and better business methods as may assist in the advancement of aviation in the Entertainment Aviation Profession.
- 04
To cooperate with those governmental agencies, industry organizations, entities or associations whose objective is the betterment or advancement of Aviation within the Entertainment Aviation Profession.
- 05
To work for and promulgate the mutual benefits, general safety and welfare of Aviators working in the Entertainment Aviation Profession.
Our history
Built by aviators. Shaped with industry.
The association has long supported higher aviation standards, shared safety knowledge, and productive relationships across motion picture and television production.
Association founded
Motion picture aviators formalized the MPPA with a focus on safety, standards, and professional cooperation.
Cross-sector cooperation
MPPA works across aviation, government, studios, production teams, and labor organizations.
Experience carried forward
Members bring specialized judgment and production experience to complex aviation work on location.
In memoriam
James W. Gavin
Founder of the MPPA
The association remembers James W. Gavin and the leadership that helped establish a professional voice for motion picture pilots. His commitment to aviation safety remains central to the MPPA mission.
Visit the association archive