Originally Posted by
tsquare
I'm just curious.. you have been very vocal about the decline of this profession. Why would you encourage your son to go into it? And... as a major? Of all people, I would think that you would be steering him toward something... anything else as a backup. Not flaming, just asking.
My neighbor wants to get his private pilot rating and frankly, I am discouraging him. As general aviation has declined the cost has increased. Someone flying once or twice a year just simply can't maintain proficiency. With the $50 hamburger now costing in the neighborhood of $400 to $500, individuals just can't do it.
A lot has to do with the Feds abandoning the principle of "preemption." Our locals have figured out how to milk the airport as a cash cow. Around here the balance between "corporate" and "private" aviation operations has swung to nearly 100% in favor of those who write their aviation activities off on their taxes.
As written here on this board, training has gotten priced and regulated so that a CFI with an C152 does not have a chance. The puppy mills will make the lowest priced, lowest common denominator, type pilots who are "qualified" under the regulations. That's why the regulations need to include a little of this:
Who here thinks a "rolling 360 turn" needs to be on the Commercial pilot practical?