Rob Hackman Named EAA Vice President for Government Affairs

Rob Hackman, who has two decades of experience in aviation policy in Washington, D.C., is joining EAA as Vice President, Government Affairs. Hackman succeeds Doug Macnair, who will be retiring at the end of the year.

“Government regulation and legislation impacting general aviation is becoming more complex every year, so bringing Rob’s experience and expertise to EAA is an invaluable asset to our organization and our members,” said Jack J. Pelton, EAA’s CEO and Chairman of the Board. “Doug Macnair set a very high standard of service in the tradition of EAA’s collaborative, solution-oriented approach to government outreach. Having Rob join us ensures a seamless transition for EAA’s involvement in important issues affecting all aviators.”

Hackman spent 20 years in regulatory affairs and aviation services at the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association, including five years as vice president of regulatory affairs. In that role, he provided oversight and vision for regulatory initiatives across a number of federal agencies. Hackman also led advocacy across a range of aviation issues involving airman and aircraft certification, medical policy, environmental issues, aircraft maintenance, and more.

“EAA’s unique culture and its collaborative approach to regulatory and legislative advocacy attracted me as a highly effective way to protect and promote the freedoms and privileges we have as aviators,” Hackman said. “I have been impressed for years by EAA’s philosophy of building relationships to foster collaborative solutions that benefit all involved. I am eager to continue and build on that nearly 70-year legacy.”

As part of his previous AOPA work, Hackman participated in countless rulemaking and advisory groups, including the General Aviation Joint Steering Committee, Aviation Rulemaking and Advisory Committee, Unleaded Avgas Transition Aviation Rulemaking Committee, and Part 23 Reorganization Aviation Rulemaking Committee. He also holds commercial and airline transport pilot certificates and flight instructor ratings for single and multiengine aircraft, including instrument training.

Hackman joins EAA just prior to the association’s annual EAA AirVenture Oshkosh fly-in convention, which is also an important meeting place to discuss major aviation issues and initiatives. EAA annually hosts leadership from the FAA, NTSB, Congress, and others meeting face-to-face on key issues, as well as to showcase the depth and breadth of the recreational aviation community. It is one of two annual sessions, along with the EAA/FAA Winter Recreational Aviation Summit, where FAA policymakers come to Oshkosh to work together on specific GA issues and shared goals.