Firstly, we were talking about flying in company only. You can leave formation flying out of this debate!
Secondly, the fact that something is inherently unsafe is not a good reason for prohibiting it.
One of the biggest problems with this country of ours is the Nanny State. Every few days there's a new government or caa regulation which regulates what was once left to an individual's judgment. We see it everyday; people who haven't had to think for themselves because they are duped into a false sense of security by adherence to rules. It seems that these rules are simply designed to protect idiots to the detriment of normal people. Flying in company is not against the rules, nor is it dangerous as long as it's done by reasonably competent people.
IMHO driving down the M25 at 80 MPH with a hundred other motorists, some of whom passed their tests decades ago, some of whom passed their tests but are awful drivers, and others for whom 'a test' was 200 Marlboro lights under the pub table. That, my friends, is far more dangerous, requires far more concentration and luck, than a few competent PPL holders flying within visual range of each other AND it's seen as acceptable. Let's get this in perspective!
I agree with Julian, what a load of scaremongering. It's common on this site - granted - but it's frustrating nevertheless.
The same people who make these comments probably drive at 40 MPH in the countryside - because it's safer - but then bumble on into a built-up area and past a school at the same speed...As long as people use their brains and training, surely this is all an over-reaction.
Bring on the flak!
