Washington, DC, April 1, 2005 – Today Pete Bunce started his tenure as President and Chief Executive Officer of the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA). The GAMA Board of Directors announced its selection of Mr. Bunce to lead GAMA in February pending his retirement from the U.S. Air Force.

Mr. Bunce joins GAMA from the Pentagon where he was Director of Air Force Congressional Budget and Appropriations Liaison working closely with members and staff of the House and Senate. He also spent five years as the Department of Defense’s representative to the International Council of Air Shows’ Board of Directors and Safety Committee.

Mr. Bunce flew numerous types of airplanes for the U.S. Air Force, including F-15s and A-10s. He holds an FAA commercial pilot certificate with multi-engine and instrument ratings. A graduate of the Air Force Academy with a Bachelor of Science Degree in International Relations, he also holds a Master of Science degree in International Affairs and attended an International Affairs Fellowship at Harvard University.

“I can’t remember a time when aviation was not a major part of my life. I had my first airplane ride at 9 months old and spent a lot of time at a general aviation airport operated by a family member near Milwaukee,” said Pete Bunce. “The fun and freedom of general aviation lead me to become a pilot and I am honored to have had the opportunity to fly in the service of our Nation. Now that my military career has ended, I look forward to focusing my efforts on fostering the growth, safety and security of general aviation at GAMA.”