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Why can't something along the lines of glidings, bronze, silver, gold award be introduced to further your flying achievement, instead of the IMC, night, twin route that many seem to take.
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The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) Wings Awards Scheme offers four levels of award namely Bronze, Silver, Gold and Platinum Wings.
There's nothing wrong with the new AOPA scheme; but in no way is it comparable to the FAI sporting badges (not just
soaring, but also
ballooning,
parachuting and
hang gliding). It has much more in common with the
FAA's "pilot proficiency award program".
Although not internationally recognized, the IAC's
Aerobatic Achievement Awards are much more comparable to the FAI sporting badges, and are a proven way of motivating pilots to remain interested and improve their skills.