NGPA Industry Expo Draws Thousands to California

Record-breaking event connects over 2,700 professionals with major airlines, mentorship, and $700K in scholarships.

Thursday, February 19, 2026 at 09:26 AM ET

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United Airlines was one of the nearly 100 organizations at the recent NGPA Industry Expo. [Credit: Matt Leighton]

Key Takeaways:

The National Gay Pilots Association (NGPA) Industry Expo has grown from a small gathering into one of the largest aviation networking and pilot recruiting events in the U.S., attracting over 2,700 attendees this year.
The expo serves as a vital platform for aviators and aspiring professionals to connect with major airlines and aviation businesses, fostering community, mentorship, and career opportunities for everyone, not just the LGBTQ+ community.
NGPA, celebrating its 35th anniversary, is committed to breaking down both social and financial barriers to careers in aviation, having awarded over $3 million in scholarships to support future pilots.
Aviation companies like GoJet Airlines and Flexjet highly value the expo for its effectiveness in recruiting diverse talent and reinforcing commitment to the industry.

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What began as a small gathering on the back patio of a bed-and-breakfast in Provincetown, Massachusetts, has grown into one the largest aviation networking and pilot recruiting events in the U.S.

For the past 12 years, the National Gay Pilots Association (NGPA) has hosted its Industry Expo, a place where aviators and aspiring professionals can connect with everything from major airlines to businesses that support the aviation community.

Matt is the Social Media Editor for aviation brands. Previously, Matt worked in television news and spent the last decade working and interning in newsrooms across New England. He is excited to bridge his two passions of aviation and storytelling in this role.