FL
You stated
"I don't suggest it is smart to fly a RIAB 'just because you can'. I am saying there is nothing wrong with flying a RIAB unless it is done at a time and place which is unsafe, in which case there is a great deal wrong with it. ie In my opinion, provided it is executed safely (and legally) the manoeuvre is a non-issue."
You are, as usual, absolutely right but much of this thread is not talking about a pilot with your military training, skill, ability and experience. Nor are we dealing with the type of high performance aircraft which you fly and which not surprisingly result in requests for an R&B. [Although I do remember our immaculate RIAB at Valley several years ago in the Chipmunk being somewhat overshadowed by I think Stefan in the Gnat shortly after - it was fun from our seats but rather short on speed, noise and punch to impress those on the ground much!!
]
God forbid that we have any more regulation but the danger is that we will unless individual pilots recognise that there is a time and a place and a second NW incident will result in the fun police stepping in. Right place, right pilot, right aircraft = brilliant fun
Wrong place, wrong pilot or wrong aircraft b#####s it up for the rest of us.