Leading up to the 4th of July, I am reminded of the freedom we have in General Aviation in the U.S. Except for my plane being in the shop and the temperatures being close to 100°F, I can get in my plane and fly in a vast majority of US airspace with little or no restriction. There is GA in other parts of the world, but I would guess here it is less bureaucratic and more efficient. What allows me to do this so freely? Fortunately, we have organizations that speak up for the “little guy.” If not for the voice of the membership of EAA, AOPA and similar organizations, the flying freedoms we enjoy would erode over time. The FAA has a job to do. They are tasked with keeping the skies safe. These groups, however, help keep GA in conversation about airspace, regulations, medical requirements, aircraft certification, etc. In recent history we have seen more flexibility in the regulations regarding pilot and medical certification and maintenance permitted by pilots and aircraft owners. The airlines have similar interest groups that keep them in the process of airline regulation, as do passenger interest organizations. It is not perfect, but the system should work to keep any group from overstepping. Membership is the key to being represented. Your membership in EAA, VAA (Vintage), IAC (Aerobatic), Warbirds and your local chapter(s) is key to our success!
Don’t forget we will not have a July member gathering on the usual fourth Saturday of the month due to conflict with AirVenture. If you are at AirVenture we will have a breakfast gathering on Tuesday July 21 at 8:00 AM at the Tailwinds Café. Breakfast is on your own. We
will grab a couple tables under the vendor pavilion. Note that the Tailwinds Café is operated by Parker John’s BBQ so look for a sign with either name. Location is at K-9 on the AirVenture map, a short walk east toward runway 18/36 from the Forums/ Workshop stop on the Red Tram. See you at OSH!
A member of EAA Chapter 1099 in Fredericksburg is working with DMV on getting an EAA specialty license plate in Virginia. This would be the first state to have one. Find the info in this issue.
Please consider helping staff our concession trailer October 10 Culpeper AirFest. This is a good fund raiser for us. Let Rob Anderson or Cathy Carey know you can help. Now let’s go fly!
Blue Skies,
Bob