I used to go to the CAA Safety Evenings anually when John Thorpe used to present them. His presentations were always dynamic and interesting, and he used his own personal photographs to illustrate various safety points. I accept that each year the subject matter remained somewhat similar, but the presentation was always relatively up beat.
I attended a couple of evenings more recently, and found them to be a bit uninspiring. I do still go, as I always try to maintain a high level of safety knowledge and awareness, but they do seem to have become a lot less 'bubbly' and dynamic.
I therefore only go every other year now. I wonder if this makes me a less safe pilot.....
I agree that sometimes the venues are overcrowded, and seating is inadequate, but as has been previously mentioned, the CAA is at the mercy of the hosting club. I am sure that more comfortable seating could be provided in a better environment, but that would neccessitate hiring a hotel room, the cost for which would be have to be picked up by the delegates. I believe that should this happen, then attendance would slump, and a valuable opportunity to pass a safety message to the flying community would be lost.
I consider myself to be reasonably experienced, and have flown all sorts from basic gliders, through to complex twins. I work in aviation, and have over 7000 professional instructing hours. I still think that the Safety Evenings are a good thing, and very worthwhile attending, and there is always an opportunity to learn something new.
It is also an opportunity to have a social event where you can sit and chat with other pilots/aircrew and exchange ideas and thoughts - without everyone rushing off to fly.
I agree that perhaps the CAA should reconsider the format of these evenings.
Tailwinds!
