Wow!!!
I would be delighted to answer the questions.
1. I was very sad that Tim decided to leave after 4 good years working together - I don't consider LOST does it justice, Tim was given a good opportunity at Delta where he was offered promotion. I helped him and encouraged his move which I hoped might benefit his career.
I have recently conducted Flight Instructor tests at Delta and discussed with Tim his obvious concern about Delta closing down, although it seems he is excited about an airline job in the offing - good luck he is a great guy - after all, I did his FI course!
2. Tim was CFI, I assumed this role myself which was the most appropriate move for IFTA based on my many years experience. Incidentally, I assume you know Tim and his background as a flight engineer with the RAF, although I don't really know why you mention it in your question.
3. NO (the CAA would not have allowed this)
4. Sadly, YES.
5. YES. We are operating from portable style buildings on the same site. Our approval has remained in place, as the accomodation is fully compliant with the regulations and include adequate breifings rooms etc. Although we all loved our charmingly renovated 50 year old building, our students seem to somehow prefer what we affectionaly now call the 'cabins'.
6. YES, Tim's favorite Seneca was damaged - it was mine also!
7. Emphatically YES - my days of enjoying aircraft ownership are behind me - too much stress and cost! I am going to take a leaf out of my friends Trevor & Ben's book, and lease them in. Congratulations to them, they were much smarter than me!
We have a contract with a leasing company to provide as many aircraft as we need to service our students - the next hurricanes will be much more fun on that basis!
8. NO, yet another stupid rumor. The CAA would have no juristiction to encourage or otherwise mergers between companies involved in aviation. Of course it would not be appropriate for me to confirm or deny any confidentail negotioations I have had, or am having with any third party without thier consent.
9. Emphatically NO - just asked people to pay for the services they have received.
Thanks for your questions - again I am at a disadvantage in not knowing who you are - perhaps I might suggest we discuss matters in private - I would agree post any further comments after that chat that could be relevant or interesting to the wannabees.
Stephen Fisher
President. IFTA