Fostering a better understanding of the RAF and the role played by air power

The Air Power Association today plays a decisive role in enhancing the image of the Royal Air Force by fostering close links with the media and the defence and aviation industry.  Its aim is to develop a better understanding of the Service and the role played by air power through a programme of top-level briefings, functions and professional visits. 

The Association was founded in 1947 as the Air Public Relations Association by members of the Air Ministry Information Division, later RAF Public Relations.  The moving spirit behind it was C P Robertson, then Director Public Relations RAF, who had been with the press side of the Air Ministry since 1918 following service with the Royal Flying Corps.  The Association’s base was further expanded in 1948 when aircraft industry public relations officers were invited to join.

The next major change came in 2000 when recommendations to make the Association a more effective and attractive networking organisation were accepted by the AGM, including changing its name to the Air Power Association.

Its Patron is by tradition the current Chief of the Air Staff.  The President is Air Marshal Sir Dusty Miller and the Chairman of the Executive Committee is the current Director Air Staff, Air Commodore Mark Roberts.