0:00:00
Eric Popper, a resident of Plainfield, Illinois, shares his background in aviation and marine adjusting since 2001. With over 40 years of experience, Popper started in the industry through Bill Hall of L.J. Shaw and Company and later worked for Arnold and Arnold. His expertise spans across aviation claims, marine claims, aviation appraising, and business appraising. As a 737 captain for United Airlines with 28 years of experience, Popper’s diverse background in flying various aircraft types and his role as a flight instructor and FAA FAST team representative have given him extensive industry connections, beneficial for his work in aviation claims.

Popper describes his ideal client as one seeking expertise in general aviation, corporate, and turbine aircraft, specializing in hull claims. Working for Arnold and Arnold, he appreciates the mentorship and support from colleagues with different skill sets. His introduction to the OFA in 2001 by Bill Hall led to networking opportunities and a career shift to aviation work.

Popper recounts a unique OFA experience where his Airbus pilot background led to an unexpected assignment with a radar array on a Navy destroyer. He values the camaraderie and family atmosphere of the OFA, highlighting its tight-knit, supportive community.

0:04:51
Popper encourages OFA membership, emphasizing the need for enthusiastic individuals with diverse skills in aviation, marine, appraising, and adjusting. He notes the OFA’s evolution from a traditionally male-dominated group of aviation adjusters to a more inclusive and diverse organization. The goal is to continue this expansion and possibly develop educational or certification programs, inspired by a meeting at the Emory Middle Campus in Daytona and relationships with academic institutions.