Lead by example
LAC Membership has been announced as £240 with unlimited landings including use of the clubhouse and the car park, the latter to become a pay & display wheel clamping area in due course when security fencing is erected together with airside access gates. So generally a good deal for flying members, as previously reported.
The real surprise is Student membership which has been set at a reduced fee of £180 but the student will now have to pay for each landing and circuit. Seems a backward step if you want to encourage people to fly from Barton, when it is already cheaper to fly from Liverpool.
Hangarage is increasing by 50% no vat. Outside parking has, as rumoured, been increased 100% + vat.
The LAC flying school will now be paying rent and outside parking. Flying school aircraft were always hangared free. Similarly those aircraft leased in and deemed to be on the school fleet previously enjoyed free hangarage/parking. Those owners will now have to put their hands in their pockets or sort something out in the leasing rates agreed with the school. Either way flying school rates may have to be increased, even though the Chairman has stated they will not be.
It now remains to be seen if members and students vote with their feet. Aircraft have left already, and others will be departing now the new rates are known. Will there be any to take their place? If there were, they would already be here.
The chairman's master plan is leaking like a sieve. Many members want to know why he did not have the courtesy to consult the membership before hastily signing agreements with MSCD/Peel.
As to leading by example, rumours circulating suggest that the chairman's grouped Cessna 172 could be moving to Liverpool where rates are reported to be cheaper. The new company secretary has already moved his aircraft to Ashcroft.