USHPA Chapters

USHPA chapters are member-managed organizations recognized by USHPA. These groups are autonomous, self-governing, and financially independent, bringing together passionate flying enthusiasts to share their love for the sport and create a vibrant community.

Benefits

Registered USHPA chapters receive:

• Access to third-party liability insurance for chapter activities and landowners.
• Visibility through a chapter listing on the USHPA website.
• Ability to host ACE events. 
• USHPA representation and advocacy efforts to support your chapter’s interests where possible.
• Enhanced standing and influence when engaging with landowners, public officials, or community stakeholders.

 

Responsibilities

• Foster strong relationships with landowners and land managers.
• Ensure only USHPA members fly insured sites, as their insurance and waivers protect landowners and managers. Allowing non-USHPA pilots to fly could jeopardize site access in case of incidents.
• Set minimum pilot rating requirements for flying at your sites.
• Annually review and update a risk management plan and publicly accessible site guide for each location.
• Maintain your status as a non-profit corporation.

    

 

Start a New Chapter

Can't find a chapter in your area and would like to start one? Submit an application for review. 

• New Chapter Application
• Sample Chapter Bylaws

 

Renewal Cycle

• New Chapter Officer Quick Start Guide
• Chapters renew their status with USHPA and Recreation RRG annually. 
• All chapter insurance policies expire February 28 (or 29) of each year. 
• The renewal period opens in December with a January submission due date. 
• Late renewals are accepted, but it's possible to have a gap in insurance coverage. 

 

USHPA chapters are eligible to host Accredited Competitions and Events (ACE) events. ACE events are USHPA-qualified activities that meet defined standards for safety, operational quality, and overall contribution to the member experience. These events are intended to strengthen community, support skill development, enhance the public perception of free flight, and encourage broad participation and long-term member retention.

ACE accreditation applies to a wide range of organized soaring activities. Examples include fly-ins, local or developmental fun competitions, structured training events, public demonstrations, and league meets or competitions.

How do I know if I need to apply for ACE accreditation? Check out the ACE Event vs Chapter Event Guidelines!

ACE Event Cost Estimator

Ready to apply? Click the link for the full application. ACE Accreditation Application