Washington, DC, September 13, 2005 – The General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) today announced the retirement of Barry Valentine from his role as GAMA’s Senior Vice President of International Affairs effective September 30, 2005. Mr. Valentine has held this position since 1999.

GAMA President and CEO Pete Bunce stated, "Barry’s contribution to aviation has been spectacular. His breadth of experience in all aspects of aviation is unmatched. He has been a great resource and champion for industry during the formation of a single aviation safety agency in Europe and an advocate for gaining acceptance for general aviation in emerging markets such as China and Japan. Barry worked to build strong relationships between industry and the Departments of State and Commerce. He will be tremendously missed."

Prior to joining GAMA, Barry Valentine held numerous positions in the aviation field including acting Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and serving as Assistant Administrator for Policy, Planning and International Aviation. He has over 40 years experience in aviation including 3,000 hours flying for the United States Air Force of which 1,000 hours were in combat earning him the Distinguished Flying Cross. He was also the Director of the Portland (Maine) International Jetport and the Director of Aeronautics for the Maine Department of Transportation.

Barry Valentine was elected to the Maine House of Representatives in 1976, served as Chief of Staff to the majority party in the Maine Legislature and was on the staff of the U.S. Senate of the U.S. Senate Majority Leader George Mitchell.

On his retirement Barry intends to continue his involvement in aviation which includes serving on the board of the Experimental Aircraft Association and flying his recently purchased Cessna 150 "Texas Taildragger".