“We aspire to promote diversity and inclusion in an industry that is underrepresented by many demographics.”

Established in 2017

The Professional Asian Pilots Association (PAPA) was created in April 2017 by a passionate group of airline pilots. What started as a singular group chat between a group of friends gradually evolved into a full-fledged organization, connecting and empowering individuals who share the same vision to overcome Asian underrepresentation in the aviation industry.

Our Mission

PAPA is dedicated to bringing awareness and support to all members of the Asian community in all fields of aviation. We hope to inspire current and prospective professionals towards a fulfilling career in aviation.

Title Sponsor

We are incredibly thankful for the support of our 2022 title sponsor Southwest Airlines. Based in Dallas, and founded in 1971, Southwest Airlines operates one of the world’s most admired and awarded airlines by offering its one-of-a-kind value and hospitality at 121 airports across 11 countries. Learn more about how Southwest leverages its mission to serve communities at Southwest.com/citizenship.

Board of Directors

PAPA President Harley Pasiderio
PAPA Director Carly Namihira
PAPA Director Anders Young
PAPA Director Benson Truong
PAPA Director Hui Wang
PAPA Director James Spotts

President

Harley Pasiderio

Southwest Airlines - First Officer

Anders Young

United Airlines - First Officer

Hui Wang

SkyWest Airlines - Captain

PAPA Vice President Kaori Paris

James Spotts

United Airlines - First Officer

David Takahashi

Delta Airlines - First Officer

PAPA Director David Takahashi

Carly Namihira

United Airlines - First Officer

Benson Truong

CPL

Vice President

Kaori Paris

United Airlines - First Officer

Lorren Wang

JSX - Captain

PAPA Director Lorren Wang
First PAPA Meeting in Los Angeles, July 10, 2017

PAPA’s First Meeting - Los Angeles, July 10, 2017