The Aerospace Industries Association announced on April 6 that Simone Pérez has joined the organization as Vice President of Civil Aviation. Pérez brings significant experience in legislative and regulatory matters to her new role, where she will lead efforts to modernize the National Airspace System and certification processes.
Pérez’s appointment is seen as an important step for the association as it seeks to advance aviation safety, innovation, and sustainable growth within the industry. She will collaborate with member companies and international partners on policy areas such as certification, rulemaking, emerging technologies, air traffic systems, environmental performance, and unmanned aerial systems integration. In addition, she will represent AIA in global forums including the International Coordinating Council of Aerospace Industries Associations.
“We’re thrilled to have Simone back at the Aerospace Industries Association. She knows civil aviation inside and out — from the legislative, regulatory, and industry perspectives,” Eric Fanning, President and CEO of AIA said. “As Vice President of Civil Aviation, she will be an incredible resource for our members as we push for bold reforms that will strengthen safety, drive innovation, and grow the American aerospace sector.”
Pérez previously served as Assistant Administrator for Policy and Strategic Engagement at the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), where she led strategic policy initiatives including international aviation efforts. Her background also includes senior roles in both chambers of Congress focused on FAA reauthorization bills. From 2022-2023 she was Senior Director of Civil Aviation at AIA.
The Aerospace Industries Association operates in the aerospace and defense sector supporting manufacturers and suppliers according to its official website. The association shapes U.S. policy on national security issues along with aviation safety initiatives according to its official website, while also promoting diversity through inclusion programs according to its official website. Its advocacy extends internationally by leading ethical conduct forums since 2010 according to its official website.
AIA provides networking opportunities through councils and committees alongside access to over 1,400 industry standards according to its official website. The organization also supports policies designed to bolster national security while encouraging economic expansion across aerospace sectors according to its official website.
