He should not be allowed
Recently a member of the GC took a personal phone call from a non-member pilot who was involved in an operational matter. This was not an official 'hotline' call, however the GC Member was asked for assistance. Under the assumption the pilot was a Member, that assistance was given. It was only after providing this assistance did this pilot admit that he was in fact not a Member.
We do not hold the GC Member involved accountable for his actions - he was doing what he thought was in the best interest of the pilot. However we are disappointed that a non-member pilot would actually reach out and request AOA assistance in such circumstances.
We are looking at changing our internal procedures, like requiring Members to identify themselves by their AOA ID number prior to initiating any assistance, but that does not correct what has happened. This pilot concerned has subsequently applied to join the HKAOA which either can be considered a victory for the HKAOA, or a devaluation of the 'value' of Membership. This issue is currently being debated at the GC who will ultimately decide on the application. We encourage all Members to write to the GC with opinions either way as so to help stimulate this conversation.
This is an utter disgrace