Professional Asian Pilots Paving the Way for the Next Generation

By Benson Truong

For anyone interested in aviation, flight, and travel, the idea of entering the aviation industry as a professional can seem overwhelming. Many members of the Professional Asian Pilots Association felt the same way growing up. In 2017, a group of regional pilots sought to change that to make it easier for those following in their footsteps to achieve their aviation goals.

PAPA member and scholarship recipient Megan Esqueda

“As a scholarship recipient, PAPA has helped me alleviate a huge financial barrier of attending flight school so that I can focus on studying and flying!” says PAPA member and 2021 Scholarship Recipient, Megan Esqueda. Interested in a career as a pilot, Esqueda hit a roadblock when trying to begin her studies, but now she’s working through her commercial pilot certificate, well on her way to becoming a professional pilot. “My PAPA mentor Emily has been a huge support while I navigate the aviation industry. PAPA has helped turn my dreams into reality, and I’m so honored to be a part of this organization!”

In April of 2017, with a mission of helping more young aviators see themselves in the field, they created Professional Asian Pilots Association (PAPA), a 501c3 non-profit organization. The organization has grown from a group chat to a nation-wide network of aviation enthusiasts, who participate in PAPA’s mentoring programs, social meet-ups, careers events and more. Just last year, PAPA hosted its first-ever industry expo, which it will be hosting again this year.

PAPA’s First Meeting - Los Angeles, July 10, 2017. From left to right: Founding members Chanwoo Park, Nigel Tam, Tim Wong, Jason Woo and Angelo Bautista

In the United States, fewer than 3% of airline pilots identify as Asian, but PAPA is seeking to change that. PAPA connects individuals who share a common vision of overcoming Asian underrepresentation in aviation, and works to inspire, advocate, engage, and empower aviation professionals.

PAPA members received conditional job offers during the 2022 event

Since 2017, PAPA has awarded over $1.2 million in scholarships to PAPA members. These scholarships help cover the cost of flight training, helping them to pursue their dreams. The 2023 Spring Scholarship Window is now open, and will close on March 31, 2023. More information can be found by visiting asianpilots.org/scholarship.

In addition to scholarships, PAPA is hosting its second annual expo on May 18-19, 2023 at the Westgate Resort in Las Vegas, Nevada. This event is a celebration of Asian culture and a platform for the Asian American community to connect and support each other in the aviation industry. The two-day event will feature a career fair, along with food, cultural activities, performances, guest speakers, and more. This is a unique opportunity for attendees to meet recruiters from the industry, learn about the latest developments in the aviation world, and network with other PAPA members.

PAPA Expo 2022 featured a lion dance performance

The inaugural PAPA Expo in 2022 was a huge success, hosting over 60 companies, 350 exhibitors and nearly 1,000 attendees. The organization has taken feedback from the first event and expanded the second annual expo to two days, allowing for even more exhibitors, attendees, and opportunities to connect. This year’s event is set to be even bigger and better, a must-attend for anyone who is passionate about the aviation industry.

PAPA is more than just an organization; it is a community that is passionate about the aviation industry, committed to empowering the Asian American community. The second annual PAPA Expo will be an opportunity for the community to come together, celebrate their culture, and support one another in their careers. Whether you are a seasoned professional or just starting out, the PAPA Expo is an event that you do not want to miss. Buy a ticket, register for the events, and take your first step towards a fulfilling career in the aviation industry! Learn more at asianpilots.org/expo.

PAPA member Felix Wong (left) and PAPA director David Takahashi (right)