Hi Jwscud
Thanks for your understanding – and, let me return the compliment – you make your points both clearly and succinctly – and, having done so, it is evident that there is being generated at least some (perhaps a great deal MORE than “some”) confusion and questions. I don’t know of anyone who claims to be a professional aviator who would accept the kinds of questions and the degree of confusion you, and the others on this thread, have described.
Not that it will make any difference to anyone, yourself included, but I can acknowledge that the level of concern expressed over these last few days (weeks? more?) has not gone unnoticed, at least by me. Of course, I certainly cannot even suggest that one little ‘ole voice (mine) could do much of anything toward addressing those question or those concerns, as the “bully pulpit” I now occupy has nowhere near the “bully-ability” as the one I used to occupy … but, let me say this … I AM going to discuss these issues with colleagues of mine – some of whom are still integrally involved in this particular business – and the others, in addition to having their own theories and opinions, also have their own colleagues and professional contacts.
I have been impressed with what has been said – particularly if I filter out the rhetoric and the emotions (both of which are totally understandable, by the way), and I am now pondering …
1) what I may be able to do to advance the concerns you have expressed and do so with those who might be in positions to do something meaningful about it … and
2) just how I might be able to present that information in a manner that would allow a better grasp of the facts involved.
I would love to be able to guarantee that whatever it is I am able to generate will, indeed, “fix the problems” you’ve outlined. Unfortunately, all of whatever I can generate may only be acknowledged and dismissed – although, I think the dismissal option is really quite minimal. The question might be, not only what can be done, but might be the cost involved and who, logically and correctly, should be required to bear that cost. As I’m quite sure you know, as we say here, in the Colonies, “there is no such thing as a free lunch.” But check back once in a while and I’ll try to keep you abreast of whatever is going on.
Best regards,
A/R