Flying in Europe versus the USA in a nutshell
Join Date: May 2006
Location: Germany
Age: 53
Posts: 83
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What silvaire said!
Here in Germany single engine pistons are considered rich peoples toys that are unneccessary and only cause noise and pollution. At the moment there are several strong and very vocal citizen movements fighting for the closure of some smaller (and also some big) airports. Almost no support from politics because private pilots are a small minority not relevant to politicians.
Very expensive AVGas and maintenace costs. Lots of regulations.
At some areas regular calls from hostile residents near small airports with noise complaints.
Sure, You can physically land at a small but officially closed airport in the evening, but You'll get in legal trouble then.
On the positive side: growing segment of the ultralight/VLA class with several new ultralight planes developed by european companies. Less operating and maintenace costs. Especially learning to fly a gyrocopter seems to be in fashion these days...
Here in Germany single engine pistons are considered rich peoples toys that are unneccessary and only cause noise and pollution. At the moment there are several strong and very vocal citizen movements fighting for the closure of some smaller (and also some big) airports. Almost no support from politics because private pilots are a small minority not relevant to politicians.
Very expensive AVGas and maintenace costs. Lots of regulations.
At some areas regular calls from hostile residents near small airports with noise complaints.
Sure, You can physically land at a small but officially closed airport in the evening, but You'll get in legal trouble then.
On the positive side: growing segment of the ultralight/VLA class with several new ultralight planes developed by european companies. Less operating and maintenace costs. Especially learning to fly a gyrocopter seems to be in fashion these days...
