I started in 1997, so not yet 20 years ago, but I can clearly see changes going on. It was much easier to get into larger airfields, and also at reasonable rates, that's the biggest thing I miss. I also think that very light aircraft will be the only way for my kids to learn to fly at normal prices. I very dislike how they are built and look and I can't imagine they have the same attraction as aircraft had when I was younger.
I also have the feeling that nowadays GA aircraft maintenance has the same high standard everywhere, whereas in the past it could fluctuate.
Another feeling I have is that in the past the flying lessons themselves were of higher quality while the exams were looser, whereas nowadays the teaching has gone backwards, while the exams are more stringent. I have done both in the pre-JAR era and in the "modern" era, so I think I can compare them.
Last edited by Piper19; 22nd Oct 2013 at 14:01.