I have just read this thread and quite frankly, I am horrified that so much vitriol can be thrown about over what was a relevant question, albeit perhaps phrased in a rather controversial way.
Seems to me that we are all here to do essentially the same job, i.e. move people and machines about the sky in as safe and expeditious way as possible. If there is a lack of understanding about the application of the rules, why can't we discuss this in a more productive way? Please. After all, we are supposed to be professionals - and this website provides a window to the public. This sort of stuff doesn't give a favourable impression of any of us.
