2 June 2025
Owain Johns is the new chief executive of the British Microlight Aircraft Association (BMAA).
Owain is a keen pilot of a P&M QuikR flexwing microlight and was the organiser of the World Microlight Championships when the event came to the UK in 2024.
He was chosen from ‘a tough field of 50 applicants for the job’, said the BMAA. Eight of those were shortlisted, five were interviewed, and the final choice came down to two very strong candidates.
“Both had clearly demonstrated strong leadership skills and previous experience in building organisations while working within strictly regulated environments,” said BMAA Chairman Tim Burrow.
“The factor that propelled Owain ahead of his opponents was his passion, enthusiasm and vision for the BMAA.
“His views on strengthening the association through closer links with schools, flying clubs, airfields and the membership as a whole aligned perfectly with the strategy and objectives set by the board.
“I observed the first signs of this while working with him as we built the team needed to deliver the World Championships in 2024.
BMAA new chief flying his QuikR microlight. Photo: BMAA
“Owain is a fantastic people person, and since members are at the very heart of what the BMAA represents as a members’ association, possessing strong people skills and a genuine desire to unite everyone to make us all stronger was a crucial factor in the decision-making process.
“Owain’s CV told us everything we needed to know about his ability to manage the operational side of the BMAA, and his interview quickly reinforced this belief. This was largely the case with all interviewees, to be fair.
“This allowed us to consider other qualities each candidate could bring, and this is where Owain’s passion for the BMAA and energy for flying shone through.
“We’re thrilled to have Owain join us as the Chief Executive Officer for the BMAA. We see a very bright future ahead for the association, and we look forward to working closely with him to provide strong leadership and governance to the BMAA as we build a stronger future.”
Owain was organiser of the World Microlight Championships when the event came to the UK in 2024. Photo BMAA
Owain said, “I’m thrilled to be appointed and excited to be the next CEO. Being able to combine my professional experience with one of my passions is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for me.
“The BMAA has a great team, with real strength and depth, and I’m looking forward to working with them and learning from their extensive knowledge.
“I’m also looking forward to seeing and speaking to members at events throughout this year. Please be patient, as it will take me time to adjust from wearing a member’s hat and adapting to this exciting role.
“I’m also conscious that I need to ensure that I’m inclusive to all microlight types, as I do have a slight leaning towards most things flexwing.
“It was obvious from the recent Popham trade fair that the future is bright for microlighting in the UK, and I look forward to playing a part in its future success and working with our members, our schools and instructors and manufacturers.”
Owain starts in the new job at the BMAA on 1 August 2025.
