Online aviation communities

"Social networking" is is all the rage these days, and almost everyone with a computer has heard of MySpace and Facebook, but what about online social communities that focus on aviation?  Are there some that might appeal to the aviators, professionals, and enthusiasts among us? It turns out there are more than you might think and I thought I'd highlight a few.

myTransponder is technically still in beta but that shouldn't stop you from having a look, especially if you are a pilot or hard core enthusiast. It centers a bit around general aviation, but don't let that limit you.

Like other social networks, it has a mechanism to establish "friends" and create special interest groups. There are groups devoted to particular airplanes, specific geographic locations, aviation organizations, related products, and aviation events like AirVenture and Sun 'n Fun.

At myTransponder you'll find places to post photos, manage your aviation events, participate in polls, and carry on a number of activities with other members.

Twitter is a free "micro-blogging" service that's not specific to aviation, but it contains some ad-hoc "communities" that are made up of people that share an interest in aviation.

Twitter lets you post your thoughts, 150 characters at a time.  People who choose to "follow" you see what you have to say. Similarly, you read the posts of the people you follow.  By carefully selecting who you follow, you can create what is essentially a community that you define.

You can find me on Twitter as MaxFlight.  If you look at the people I follow, you'll see that almost all have some aviation connection.  When I read their messages, the flying theme is pretty strong. Over time you get to know the people you interact with. Besides the entertainment value, I've received and given help, created some great friendships, and found leads for topics and guests on the Airplane Geeks podcast I co-host.

Twitter is not for everyone, but it is somewhat addictive and you can tailor it to your needs if you are careful.

The Aviation Professionals Network is an interesting site that is similar to other social networks in that you sign up, create a profile, and engage in activities with other members.

AvProNet has special interest groups in the areas of maintenance, aircraft sales, helicopters, airlines, education, business aviation, training, search and rescue, avionics, and a lot more.  Within each group you can find a comment wall and a discussion forum.  Like other online communities, you get out of it what you put into it.

There are many more online aviation communities and social networks, some general in nature and others highly specialized. See the Aviation Forums and Communities page on Thirty Thousand Feet for a rather long list of them.  Find one or two that appeal to you and start participating!