The Popular Rotorcraft Association (PRA) was founded in 1962 as a voluntary, non-profit, non-partisan organization dedicated to the advancement of knowledge, public education, and safety in the building or privately-owned, non-commercial rotorcraft. PRA was established to unite all people interested in developing and promoting rotorcraft for personal flying.

Membership dues include Rotorcraft magazine, issued nine times per year; participation in the Association's meetings and other activities; exchange with PRA members in the United States and other countries of the latest information on private ownership and operation of rotorcraft; and representation of your interests before government bodies in an organized manner.

In addition to the national organization, numerous PRA-affiliated chapters throughout the United States and other countries provide a local/regional focus for rotorcraft activities. Local PRA chapters are the place to find experienced gyroplane and helicopter pilots who can give you sound advice on building your first rotorcraft, obtaining flight training, and getting through your early hours in the sport. Chapter meetings also provide the opportunity for good fellowship and the opportunity to exchange technical information and that all-important "hangar flying".

PRA was responsible for the petition to the FAA that permits two-seat gyroplanes in the Experimental category to be used for gyroplane flight training. PRA also sponsored scholarships to encourage training of new Certified Flight Instructors with Gyroplane ratings. In Part, due to these initiative, there are now gyro-rated CFIs throughout the country and their number increases every month. CFIs represent the safe and sane way to transition into a gyroplane and the PRA Headquarters can provide you with a list of CFIs in your area.

The PRA sponsors a National Convention/Fly-in each summer and several regional Fly-ins are sponsored through the year by individual PRA chapters or groups of chapters. In addition, local chapters typically have regular formal and informal fly-ins throughout the season. These activities are listed in Rotorcraft magazine and provide an ideal opportunity for the neophyte to see gyros in operation for the first time.