On January 17th, 2026, the AOPA Luxembourg General Assembly was held at the Park Hotel Alvisse in Luxembourg. Members gathered to review the past year, discuss the future of General Aviation in Luxembourg, and mark an important transition in leadership.
After many years of dedicated and outstanding service, Peter Sodermans stepped down as President of AOPA Luxembourg. The Assembly elected Chris Scott, previously a board member, as the new President.
Chris is an enthusiastic and experienced pilot, flying both ultralights and light aircraft, and holding UL as well as PPL/IR licences. Representing aircraft owners and pilots in Luxembourg and the wider region, she is committed to continuing the course set by her predecessor: defending and advancing General Aviation at both national and international levels, particularly in a time when GA faces increasing regulatory, operational, and infrastructure challenges. A key objective for the new presidency is the revival of the Luxembourg Airdays, bringing together all branches of General Aviation while ensuring the highest standards of safety, visibility, and cooperation with stakeholders. Chris also called on members to become more actively involved—whether within the board or through project-based support—to strengthen AOPA’s ability to represent the GA community effectively.
AOPA Luxembourg was pleased to honour Marco Felten, a longtime board member and valued friend of the association, with lifetime honorary membership. This recognition is a heartfelt thank-you for his many years of tireless, reliable, and passionate support, and for the calm strength he brought to all management and organisational aspects of AOPA Luxembourg. Marco’s commitment, generosity with his time, and deep care for the GA community have left a lasting mark on the association and will be remembered with great appreciation.
Outgoing President Peter Sodermans reviewed the many activities and achievements of 2025, underlining what can be accomplished by a small, committed team working for the common cause of flying. Highlights included:
- 46 articles published on the AOPA Luxembourg website
- 12 regular newsletters, plus additional special editions
- Safety Seminar (March 2025)
- Setup and implementation of a new paper chart distribution system
- Season Opening Fly-Out on May 1st to Le Touquet
- Participation in IAOPA Regional Meetings in Rotterdam and Zurich
- Navigation Refresher on June 14
- Château de Bournizeaux Fly-In (27–29 June)
- Representation in the Commission Aéroportuaire at Luxembourg Airport (ELLX)
- Active advocacy on AVGAS availability and the transition to unleaded fuels, with IAOPA
- Air Cadets: development of a two-day program for international cadets visiting Luxembourg
- Medical regulations: European-level advocacy and contribution to reform proposals with IAOPA
- Coordination and implementation of new membership benefits
In closing, Peter reminded members that General Aviation in Luxembourg cannot be taken for granted. Access to airfields, training opportunities for new pilots, air sports, and fair user access all require continued engagement and representation.
Finally our member Petz Bettendorf reported on his epic flights to the Cape Verdes and to Abu Dhabi in his Risen Ultralight.
The General Assembly concluded with a clear message: AOPA Luxembourg remains a strong and essential voice for General Aviation—driven by its members, committed to safety, and focused on securing a sustainable future for flying in Luxembourg.