Ron Abel

Bettendorf, IA · USA · +1 (514) 419-1191 · info@ronabel.io

I am currently a Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Interpilot Aviation Safety Foundation (IPASF). The Foundation is an independent, nonprofit, international organization engaged in research, education, advocacy and communications to improve aviation safety. The Foundation’s aim is to connect, influence, and lead international civil aviation safety, security, and environmental sustainability efforts through education and awareness.

An airline pilot for over 42 years and a well-known industry veteran, I come to the table with a broad and accomplished decades-long background in leadership roles at the International Federation of Air Line Pilots' Associations (IFALPA) and the Air Line Pilots Association, Int’l (ALPA) .

Experience

President and CEO

InterPilot Aviation Safety Foundation

The Foundation is an independent, nonprofit, international organization engaged in research, education, advocacy and communications to improve aviation safety. The Foundation’s aim is to connect, influence, and lead international civil aviation safety, security, and environmental sustainability efforts through education and awareness.

December 2018 - Present

President

International Federation of Airline Pilots' Associations (IFALPA)

Responsible for guiding the Federation’s participation in the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), which develops and promotes standards and recommended practices for the safety, security, and environmental sustainability of international civil aviation.

Acting on a global scale, our volunteers also deliver on the details; by working on committees, double-checking safety policies, and taking time to mentor student aviators.

October 2016 - May 2019

Deputy President

IFALPA

Collaboratively administrate empowered volunteer organization. Assist and support Member Associations, when required, by providing liaison with governmental and other appropriate institutions and organizations. Develop strategy and oversee policy development on issues related to international air transportation. Monitor, and recommend action on, international negotiations, airline alliances, and other such activities that have the potential to influence the piloting profession.

April 2016 - October 2016

Captain

United Airlines (Retired)

Safely and efficently connecting people and uniting the world.

March 1995 - September 2020

Captain

Air Wisconsin

Safely and efficently connecting people and uniting the world.

May 1978 - March 1995

Education

University of Iowa

Master of Business Administration - MBA
Business Administration and Management

Western Illinois University

Bachelor’s Degree

Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies

Skills

Airline Transport Pilot
- Flight Engineer
- Remote Pilot
- Type Ratings
  • A-320
  • AVR-146/BAE-146
  • B-747
  • B-757/B-767
  • B-777
  • BAE-ATP
  • F-27
  • SD-3

Interests

Since earning my private pilots licence at age 17, I have tried to find ways to drive positive change in the world.

In 2018 we established the InterPilot Aviation Safety Foundation (IPASF), the non-profit foundation of the International Federation of Airline Pilots' Associations, which unites people and entrepreneurial ideas to create opportunities for improving aviation safety education. Most of my time is now spent building businesses that will make a positive difference in the world of fishing and working with IPASF and organisations it has incubated. I also serve Fellow of the Royal Aeronotical Society in London.

I'm a tie-loathing adventurer, philanthropist and troublemaker, who believes in turning ideas into reality. Otherwise known as Captain Yes!

Certifications

  • Fellow - Royal Aeronautical Society
  • Master Scuba Diver