Plus' vs Minus'
UK
1) Available from many clubs, generally poor selection of overbooked, worn out aircraft with questionable old avionics.
2) Fuel at around $11.50 per gallon.
3) Landing fees at airfields and airports.
4) Mandatory 'Handling' fees at airports.
5) HUGE swathes of controlled airspace with NO ENTRY for VFR flights.
6) Lousy weather, especially between October and April.
7) VAT at 17.5% added to everything.
8) Neighbours who would rather see you without aviation.
9) Stiffling Aviation Authority with exorbitant charges. (No experimental category).
10) Overcharged parts and accessories.
11) Excellent ATC.
12) Generally high quality maintenance.
13) Very helpfull local CAA regional offices.
14) Expensive and often poor hangarage.
15) Fantastic scenery
16) Mandated, overpriced insurance.
US
1) Generally, a better selection of aircraft, both asthetically and equipment levels.
2) Fuel at lower rates (Orlando Apopka £3.86 per gallon)
3) No landing fees
4) 'Mandatory handling'???
5) Relatively small Class B and C and the 18000 ft VFR limit.
6) Much better average weather.
7) VAT???
8) Neighbours who would rather partake in aviation.
9) FAA well established without numerous name or rule changes for change's sake.
10) Parts and accessories at correct rates.
11) Excellent ATC
12) Generally high quality maintenance.
13) Very helpfull FSDO's
14) Plentiful hangarage, including individual 'T' hangars at reasonable rates.
15) Fantastic scenery
16) Non-mandated, affordable insurance
17) Unicom
18) Pilot operated landing lights
And most importantly;
Light aviation has been and is seen by the general public as a fringe hobby for the wealthy in the UK. (aka hunting with horses and hounds etc)
Light aviation has been and is seen by the general public as an accepted part of the American way of life. (aka Bud lite, Chevrolet's etc)
camlobe