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Program Schedule

Piper M600/SLS · Checklist

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Overview

This document outlines the program schedule for the PMOPA Convention, focusing on various sessions and activities relevant to pilots and aviation enthusiasts, particularly those flying Piper M-Class aircraft, including the M600/SLS. It includes safety briefings, training sessions, and networking opportunities designed to enhance pilot skills and knowledge. The schedule highlights key presentations from industry experts, discussions on safety trends, and practical training for both pilots and companions. The document serves as a comprehensive guide for attendees to navigate the convention's offerings effectively.

  • The M600/SLS is part of the Piper M-Class series, which includes specific training and safety sessions at the convention.
  • Safety briefings will cover recent accident trends specific to the PA-46 series, providing valuable insights for pilots.
  • Dedicated breakout sessions will focus on operational best practices for the M600 and other M-Class variants.
  • Companion training sessions will empower passengers to assist pilots in emergencies, enhancing overall flight safety.
  • The convention will address critical issues like Loss of Control In-Flight, a significant safety concern in general aviation.

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In this document

Safety Briefing and Accident Review

This session focuses on Piper PA-46 accidents from the past year, analyzing real-world cases to identify common risk factors and pilot decision-making challenges. Attendees will gain insights into accident prevention strategies and operational best practices.

M-Class Airframe Breakouts

Dedicated sessions for M-Class aircraft, including the M600, M600/SLS, and M700 Fury, will cover best practices for operations and highlight new service and maintenance items. These breakouts are tailored to the specific needs of each aircraft variant.

Advanced Companion Training

This training is designed for frequent passengers in Piper M-Class aircraft, focusing on how they can assist the pilot in emergencies and enhance flight safety. It includes discussions on preflight planning and in-flight support.

Loss of Control In-Flight

A panel discussion addressing LOC-I, a leading cause of fatal accidents in general aviation. The session will explore contributing factors and share strategies for recognizing and recovering from LOC-I situations.

Pre-Departure Flight Safety & Weather Briefing

A practical briefing on current and forecasted weather systems that may affect flight departures, along with key considerations for safe routing and destination planning.

Safety notes

  • Loss of Control In-Flight (LOC-I) is a leading cause of fatal accidents in general aviation and will be a key topic of discussion at the convention.
Full document text

Program Schedule Thursday, September 4 7:00pm-8:00pm EDT Convention Arrivals Briefing Register via Zoom Presented by: Jacob Meyer, Archer Aircraft Are you unfamiliar with Kenosha, WI, located between busy Chicago O’Hare and Milwaukee airspace? Join PMOPA for an arrival briefing which will review forecasted weather, discuss expected arrival procedures, outline expectations for ground operations at the Kenosha Airport, and answer your questions about flying into Kenosha for the PMOPA Convention. Register in advance via Zoom: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_ZCqieiu6Tn6zvWk4U8Hwmg This webinar will be recorded and available for attendees to view afterwards if you are unable to attend the live presentation. Wednesday, September 10 10:00am-6:00pm Shuttle Service to the Grand Geneva Resort AVP Kenosha Aviation Shuttle buses will run on a loop beginning at 10:00am. The last shuttle from the Kenosha Airport to the Grand Geneva Resort will depart at 6:00pm. Thursday, September 11 10:00am-6:00pm Shuttle Service to the Grand Geneva Resort AVP Kenosha Aviation Shuttle buses will run on a loop beginning at 10:00am. The last shuttle from the Kenosha Airport to the Grand Geneva Resort will depart at 6:00pm. 9:00am-2:30pm Golf Tournament** Golf Course Scheduled tee times for our group begin at 9:05am. Lunch will be provided. ** Separate registration fee applies. 3:00pm-5:00pm Exhibit Hall Open Maple Lawn Ballroom Refreshments will be served. 3:00pm-4:00pm First-time Attendee Welcome & Orientation Linwood Room First time attendees and their mentors will connect to ensure the most out of their first PMOPA Convention experience. Page 1 Program Schedule is Subject to Change Last Updated: Sept. 4, 2025 Program Schedule 5:30pm-7:30pm Welcome Reception Outdoor Pavilion & Putting Green Connect with long-time friends, make some new friends, and enjoy some fun activities at the kick-off reception! Drinks and heavy hors d'oeuvres will be served. The Pavilion & Putting Green are located adjacent to the Golf Center, a five minute walk from the Conference Center, or take the Grand Geneva Trolley from the Main Lobby Porte Cochere. Friday, September 12 7:00am-8:00am Breakfast with Exhibitors Maple Lawn Ballroom 8:00am-8:15am Convention Opening Ceremony Grand Ballroom Presented by: John Walters, PMOPA President 8:15am-9:45am Safety Briefing and Accident Review Grand Ballroom Presented by: Manny Casiano, PMOPA Safety & Education Foundation Board Chair Join us for a focused and informative review of Piper PA-46 accidents from the past year. This session will analyze real-world cases to identify common risk factors, pilot decision-making challenges, and safety trends affecting the PA-46 series. Attendees will gain valuable insights into accident prevention strategies, operational best practices, and actionable lessons learned from recent events. As Manny reviews previous year accidents, prepare yourself for the next two days of safety content as you think about your decision-making processes, training, and proactive safety measures, and what we as a community need to do to reduce our accident rate. 8:15am-9:45am Introductory Companion Training Part I Evergreen I Presented by: Sean Link, Legacy Flight Training This course, “The Empowered Passenger,” is for anyone who flies frequently as a passenger in a Piper M-Class aircraft. We will discuss what you, as a passenger, can do to increase the comfort and safety of every flight. From preflight planning to loading the aircraft to assisting the pilot in an emergency, your participation can make a positive impact. You will develop a list of helpful questions to ask your pilot before your next flight. Finally, you will learn a procedure that can be used to safely land the airplane in the event of a worst-case scenario: an incapacitated pilot. Page 2 Program Schedule is Subject to Change Last Updated: Sept. 4, 2025 Program Schedule 9:45am-10:30am Morning Break with Exhibitors Maple Lawn Ballroom 10:30am-11:15am Practical Risk Management Grand Ballroom Presented by: Bill Archer, Archer Aircraft, Moderator; Deanna Casey, Casey Aviation; David McVinnie, McVinnie Aviation Risk management isn’t only about checklists and procedures—it’s also about making real decisions in real time. In this engaging session, participants will step into the cockpit and confront the very scenarios that have led to PA-46 accidents. Using live polling questions for audience participation, we’ll explore how different decisions could have prevented these outcomes—and how to apply those lessons to your own flying. Guided by a panel of experienced flight instructors, this session will unpack the human factors, judgment calls, and operational pressures that often contribute to incidents. It’s not just about what happened—it’s about what you would do if you were the pilot. 10:30am-11:15am Introductory Companion Training Part II Evergreen I Presented by: Sean Link, Legacy Flight Training 11:15am-12:00pm Advocating for General Aviation Grand Ballroom Presented by: Darren Pleasance, President & CEO, Aircraft Owners & Pilots Association Join the new President & CEO of the AOPA for an engaging conversation about the future of general aviation and the critical role advocacy plays in protecting our freedom to fly. With a fresh perspective and a personal connection to the aircraft you fly—he owns and flies a Piper Meridian—Darren brings both passion and firsthand understanding to the issues that matter most to you. In this session, he’ll share his vision for AOPA, discuss key challenges and opportunities facing GA today, and highlight how owners and pilots can play a part in shaping a stronger, more unified voice for aviation. 12:00pm-1:30pm Lunch with Exhibitors Maple Lawn Ballroom 1:30pm-3:30pm Companion Activity: Paint & Sip Greenview Lawn Unleash your inner artist and join us for a relaxing and laughter-filled Paint & Sip experience! Whether you’re a seasoned painter or someone who hasn’t picked up a brush since grade school, this guided painting session is all about having fun, making memories, and creating something uniquely yours. Enjoy a glass of wine or a refreshing non-alcoholic beverage as an instructor guides you through each step of a Page 3 Program Schedule is Subject to Change Last Updated: Sept. 4, 2025 Program Schedule beautiful painting — no experience required! By the end of the session, you'll not only leave with your very own masterpiece, but also new friendships, smiles, and stories to share. This companion activity is a perfect way to unwind, get creative, and enjoy a lighthearted afternoon in great company. Spots are limited, so be sure to sign up early! Additional fee: $80. 1:30pm-2:15pm Piper Aircraft Update Grand Ballroom Presented by: Ron Gunnarson, Vice President, Sales & Marketing, Piper Aircraft; John Walters, PMOPA President Don’t miss this annual fireside chat with Piper Aircraft executive, Ron Gunnarson, offering an insider’s look at the company’s current performance, recent successes, and the challenges that lie ahead. In a candid conversation with PMOPA’s President, this session will share insights into the company’s direction and support for our community of M-Class owners. This is a unique opportunity to hear directly from the top about what’s next for Piper and how it impacts you as an owner and pilot. 2:15pm-3:15pm Loss of Control In-Flight Grand Ballroom Presented by: Kimberly Coryat, PMOPA Safety Committee Chair; Jacob Meyer, Archer Aircraft; Eric Richter, Piper Aircraft; John Walters, PMOPA President Loss of Control In-Flight (LOC-I) remains one of the leading causes of fatal accidents in general aviation, and has been cited as a cause of a spate of M-Class accidents. This panel discussion will explore the underlying factors that contribute to LOC-I events, including aircraft design/testing/certification, handling, metal fatigue, weather influences, pilot decision-making, and human factors. Our panel will share insights into real-world scenarios, effective training techniques, and proactive strategies to help pilots recognize and recover from situations that can lead to loss of control. Join us for a candid conversation aimed at improving safety and situational awareness for pilots of all experience levels. 3:15pm-3:45pm Afternoon Break with Exhibitors Maple Lawn Ballroom 3:45pm-5:00pm M-Class Airframe Breakouts The airframes breakout sessions will focus on best practices for operations for each PA-46 variant while highlighting any new applicable service and maintenance items and hot topics. Page 4 Program Schedule is Subject to Change Last Updated: Sept. 4, 2025 Program Schedule Malibu, Mirage, Matrix, M350 Grand Ballroom Presented by: Bill Archer, Archer Aircraft JetPROP Operations Evergreen I Presented by: Jerry Hinshaw, Archer Aircraft Meridian & M500 Evergreen II Presented by: Amy Heaven, John Hightower, and Randall Huelsman, Mead Aircraft Services M600, M600/SLS, M700 Fury Evergreen III Presented by: Dan Lewis, Piper Aircraft; Don Moore 5:00pm-6:30pm Reception with Exhibitors Maple Lawn Ballroom Evening Dinner on Your Own Various Restaurant Options The Grand Geneva Resort offers several dining outlets on-site for you, your companion, and friends to enjoy dinner together. Alternatively, visit the charming town of Lake Geneva, a 10 minute drive from the Grand Geneva Resort. Advance reservations for dining are recommended at the Resort or in town. Saturday, September 13 7:00am-8:00am Breakfast with Exhibitors Maple Lawn Ballroom 8:00am-9:00am Keynote: Learning to Love the Turbulence Grand Ballroom Presented by: Amelia Rose Earhart Amelia Rose Earhart is a modern-day aviation trailblazer who, in 2014, became the youngest woman to fly around the world in a single-engine turboprop aircraft, successfully completing the journey her namesake began in 1937. A former television news anchor, Amelia now dedicates her career to inspiring others through storytelling, drawing on her global flight to share lessons in courage, preparation, and resilience. As the founder of the Fly With Amelia Foundation, she has provided flight training scholarships to young women, fostering the next generation of aviators. Her keynote, Learning to Love the Turbulence: Creating A Flight Plan To Clear Any Goal For Take-Off, will resonate deeply with Page 5 Program Schedule is Subject to Change Last Updated: Sept. 4, 2025 Program Schedule owner-pilots, offering a compelling perspective on leadership, risk management, and the enduring spirit of aviation. 9:00am-9:45am Advanced Companion Training - Part I Evergreen I Presented by: Sean Link, Legacy Flight Training This advanced course, Partners in Flight, builds on the previous day with a review of the incapacitated pilot procedure followed by a discussion of how non-pilots can use intuition, situational awareness and technology to create a safer flight environment. We will discuss risk assessment, using a checklist to troubleshoot problems in-flight, and open the room for a group discussion of "dos" and "don'ts" in general aviation flying. 9:00am-9:45am PMOPA Annual Business Meeting Grand Ballroom Presented by: John Walters, PMOPA President; Don Kukla, PMOPA Secretary-Treasurer; David McVinnie, McVinnie Aviation PMOPA officers will share the “state of PMOPA” highlighting achievements in the prior year and objectives for the upcoming year, as well as our financial health, and membership numbers. David McVinnie will introduce the PMOPA member(s) who earned the coveted Wright Brothers Master Pilot Award in the prior year. Established in 2003, this Award recognizes pilots who have maintained 50 or more years of safe, professional and skilled flying as active pilots.. 9:45am-10:30am Morning Break with Exhibitors Maple Lawn Ballroom 10:30am-11:45am Advanced Companion Training - Part II Evergreen I Presented by: Sean Link, Legacy Flight Training 10:30am-11:15am Aviation Weather Planning Grand Ballroom Presented by: Danny Sims Learn the myriad of weather planning and tracking tools available to pilots, and how to establish best practices for planning and executing flights using the available tools, as well as the value of post-flight weather debriefing and recordkeeping. Page 6 Program Schedule is Subject to Change Last Updated: Sept. 4, 2025 Program Schedule 11:30am-12:15pm Break-out Sessions: Avionics Insights for Every Cockpit Whether you’re flying with a factory-installed Garmin G1000 or G3000, or managing a panel of mixed legacy avionics, these breakout sessions are designed to address your needs and questions. Join avionics experts for focused discussions tailored to your aircraft’s specific avionics suite. From maximizing the capabilities of your G1000 or G3000 systems, to exploring upgrade paths and maintenance tips for older or custom-configured panels, these sessions offer practical insights, peer experiences, and expert guidance. No matter your panel setup, you’ll leave with actionable ideas and a clearer path forward for getting the most from your avionics. G3000 Equipped Aircraft Evergreen II Presented by: Kelly Peters, Piper Aircraft G1000/G1000 NXi Equipped Aircraft Evergreen III Ryan Owens, Garmin All Other Aircraft: Updates and Upgrades Grand Ballroom Presented by: Sabrina Meiklejohn, Garmin; Steve Nunn, Maxcraft Canada; Valerie Steen, SemiPlane LLC 12:00pm-3:00pm Lake Geneva Cruise: A Scenic Escape for Companions PMOPA Registration While the pilots are engaged in their safety education sessions, their companions are invited to embark on a delightful 2.25-hour Luncheon Cruise aboard the elegant The Duchess, a charming 52-foot vessel with classic steamboat appeal. This fully narrated tour offers a comprehensive journey around the entire lake, providing captivating stories about Lake Geneva's historic estates, including the iconic six-home Wrigley compound. Highlights include: ● Gilded Age Estates: Marvel at the opulent mansions that once served as summer retreats for Chicago's elite, including families like the Wrigleys and Maytags. ● Delicious Dining: Savor a rotating menu of delectable dishes served at your table, ensuring a delightful culinary experience. ● Comfortable Cruising: Enjoy the scenic beauty from the comfort of climate-controlled vessels, ensuring a pleasant experience regardless of the weather. ● Relaxed Atmosphere: Unwind and socialize with fellow companions in a relaxed setting, perfect for making new connections and enjoying a leisurely afternoon. Page 7 Program Schedule is Subject to Change Last Updated: Sept. 4, 2025 Program Schedule This Luncheon Cruise offers a perfect blend of history, scenic beauty, and dining, making it an ideal companion activity for your event in Lake Geneva. The tour departs at 12:00pm from the Main Lobby Porte Cochere and returns to the Grand Geneva Resort by 3:00pm. Lunch is included. Additional fee: $195. 12:15pm-1:30pm Lunch with Exhibitors Maple Lawn Ballroom 1:30pm-2:15pm Power Plant Break-out Sessions Your engine is the heart of your aircraft—and keeping it running smoothly is key to safe, efficient, and confident flying. These breakout sessions dive into the unique considerations for our Continental, Lycoming, or Pratt & Whitney engines. From maintenance best practices and operating tips to overhaul planning, company support, and parts availability, each session offers insight tailored to your powerplant. Whether you're flying behind a turbine or piston, you'll walk away with expert guidance and strategies to keep your engine performing at its best. How Well Do You Know Your PT6A? (Win exclusive prizes!) Grand Ballroom Presented by: Alexander Smith, Pratt & Whitney Continental Engines Evergreen II Presented by: Kenneth Hale, Casey Aviation Services Lycoming Engines Evergreen III Presented by: Doug Hiltz, Malibu Aerospace 2:30pm-3:15pm Break-out Sessions On-Board Weather Radar Evergreen I Presented by: Joe Casey, Casey Aviation Back by popular demand, this session is all about understanding and using the on-board weather radar system in your aircraft. This session will walk you through the key features, best practices for interpreting radar data, and how to make real-time decisions to enhance safety and flight planning. Whether you're Page 8 Program Schedule is Subject to Change Last Updated: Sept. 4, 2025 Program Schedule new to weather radar or looking to refine your skills, this session will help you gain the confidence to use this powerful tool effectively and with precision. Aviation Taxes for Owner-Pilots Evergreen II Presented by: Suzanne Meiners-Levy, Advocate Consulting Legal Group, PLLC Taxes don’t have to be turbulent. This session breaks down key federal tax considerations for aircraft owners and pilots, including deductions, depreciation, and business use scenarios. We’ll also touch on how state aviation taxes may apply, depending on where you’re based or fly. Whether you're navigating ownership structures or planning for the next tax season, this session will help you stay compliant and maximize the benefits of aircraft ownership. Maintenance Hot Topics for the Technically Inclined Evergreen III Presented by: Randall Huelsman, Mead Aircraft Services This session is designed for the engaged owner who wants to go beyond the basics and dive deeper into the technical side of maintaining an M-Class Piper aircraft. We’ll explore advanced maintenance topics, common issues specific to M-Class variants, troubleshooting strategies, and best practices that can make a big difference in aircraft reliability. Whether you're already helping to turn wrenches or simply want a better understanding of how your airplane works, this session will deliver the detail and insight you’re looking for. 3:30pm-4:15pm Break-out Sessions Garmin Pilot: Advanced Tools for M-Class Aviators Evergreen II Presented by: Ryan Owens, Garmin Take your proficiency with Garmin Pilot to the next level in this fast-paced breakout session designed for experienced Garmin Pilot users. We’ll explore intermediate to advanced features including flight planning for complex profiles, real-time weather integration, vertical navigation planning, and leveraging Garmin Pilot with onboard avionics. Ideal for pilots already comfortable with the basics, this session focuses on practical tips, real-world scenarios, and workflow strategies to maximize safety, efficiency, and confidence from pre-flight planning to in-flight execution. Page 9 Program Schedule is Subject to Change Last Updated: Sept. 4, 2025 Program Schedule Unlocking the Power of ForeFlight Evergreen III Presented by: Josh Berman, Foreflight; Hank Gibson, Texas Top Aviation Many pilots rely on ForeFlight to streamline flight planning, navigation, and in-flight management. This session will explore how to fully leverage ForeFlight’s features to manage flight planning and in-flight operations. Whether you’re a new user or a seasoned pro, you’ll learn how to make the most of this powerful app and improve your efficiency in the cockpit. 4:20pm-4:45pm Pre-Departure Flight Safety & Weather Briefing Evergreen I Presented by: Jacob Meyer, Archer Aircraft As you prepare for your flight home, join Jacob Meyer, an MSIP Gold CFI, for a practical pre-flight weather, airport departure, and safety briefing. This session will review the current and forecasted weather systems that may affect your departure, along with key considerations for your route and destination. It’s a great opportunity to ask questions, get local insights, and leave the convention with confidence in your plan for a safe and smooth flight. 5:30pm-6:15pm Lifetime Membership Reception Linwood Room By invitation only All PMOPA Lifetime Members and their companions are invited to the Lifetime Member Reception. 6:00pm-7:00pm Cocktail Reception & Silent Auction Grand Ballroom Foyer Supporting PMOPA Safety & Education Foundation 7:00pm-10:00pm Gala & Live Auction Grand Ballroom Supporting PMOPA Safety & Education Foundation Sunday, September 14 6:00am-12:00pm Shuttle Service to the AVP Kenosha FBO Porte Cochere Shuttle buses from the Grand Geneva Resort to the AVP Kenosha FBO will run on a loop beginning at 6:00am from the Main Lobby Porte Cochere. The last shuttle from the Grand Geneva Resort to AVP Kenosha will depart at 12:00pm. Page 10 Program Schedule is Subject to Change Last Updated: Sept. 4, 2025