re: the comment about Airline pilots wering ties and PPL instructors doing the same
The cockpit of an airliner is (relatively) comfortable and spacious and has air conditioning and temperature control.
The cockpit of the C150 that I have spent 250 hours in throughout the summer is very cramped, very very hot, badly ventilated.
Now I have no problem whatsoever with anyone choosing to wear a tie, I dont think its prententious in any way, simply that being over dressed or uncomfortable is not helpful towards providing good instruction. My job is to teach people to fly, not to look fabulous doing it. I just think that wearing a tie is irrelevant to anything really.
Lets look smart and professional and wear clothing that is SUITABLE to the aircraft that we're flying.
We want a relaxed, comfortable, safe, professional environment to fly in, lets allow oursleves to dress in that manner too!