We are pleased to announce:
San Carlos Airport Association General Membership Meeting
Thursday, May 7th, 2026 at 6:30 PM
at the Skyway Center, 655 Skyway Road.
Our guest speaker will be:
Doug Rice
Doug has dedicated more than five decades to advancing and preserving general aviation in California. A 2026 Sharples Award winner and longtime Vice President of CalPilots’ Region 3, he is widely respected as one of the West Coast’s most effective aviation advocates. A recently retired American Airlines Captain with over 30,000 flight hours, Doug has leveraged deep technical expertise, institutional knowledge, and an unwavering commitment to the pilot community to ensure aviation remains a vital part of California’s transportation system. Doug has advised the SCAA Board on past issues, and he will be talking about the challenges faced by GA airports, including San Carlos Airport.
During his tenure with CalPilots, Doug has worked closely with AOPA to address some of the state’s most significant general aviation challenges. He continues to lead efforts to defend Reid-Hillview Airport and San Martin Airport against fuel restrictions, closure threats, and redevelopment pressures, organizing data-driven responses to flawed emissions studies and advocating for transparent, science-based policy. He also played a central role in statewide efforts to prevent the diversion of airport revenues, protecting the long-term viability of numerous California airports.
Doug has been instrumental in airspace modernization and safety initiatives. As the AOPA and ALPA representative during the creation of San Jose International Airport’s Class C airspace, he ensured general aviation interests were fully represented. He continues to contribute to SFO’s Class B airspace and broader Bay Area modernization efforts, working with the FAA, NORCAL TRACON, and other stakeholders to promote safe, balanced, and efficient airspace use.
Beyond policy and technical work, Doug has devoted countless hours to mentorship and public education, engaging pilots, local officials, and aviation organizations to improve understanding of airport economics, environmental responsibility, and operational safety, and to strengthen relationships between pilots, policymakers, and the public.
Through DR Flight Consultants, Doug has built a distinguished career in aviation consulting, training, and safety, including insurance-approved King Air and Piaggio recurrent training, FBO market analysis, expert witness work, and airline strategic planning. He has also served on the ALPA Safety Committee and held board positions with EMB Incorporated, FPNA Incorporated, and The John Lincoln Company.
We hope to see you there! Free pizza and beverages will be provided!
All are welcome to attend – membership is not required, so please tell your friends!
If you would like to join/renew your membership, you can do so at the meeting or at https://www.sancarlosairport.org/membership Current members can pick up their free San Carlos Airport Association hat at the meeting.
If you have any questions, please email membership@sancarlosairport.org
