[Peetwo]

Submission 26 (SAAA - ) & 27 (Confidential - again..  )  

Via: https://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Bus...ubmissions

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26 Sports Aircraft Association of Australia (SAAA) (PDF 4682 KB)   

We suggest the following practical transition pathway commencing 31st January 2021:

1. Progressively convert all RAA Recreational Pilot Certificate (RPC) holders to a Part 61
Recreational Pilot Licence (RPL). Pick up the skill and knowledge differences as part of the
existing pilot Flight Review processes. Migration achieved within 2 years.
2. Either pathway the RAA flight schools to Part 141 (under which all other flight schools are required
to operate) or pathway the Part 141 schools to the RAA manual for private pilot licences – or find
some middle ground. Transition commenced by end 2021.
3. Progressively harmonise the pilot medical standards for all private pilots to those consistent with
the RAA manual on the occasion of next (annual) renewals. Migration achieved within 1 year.
4. Address the management of Flight Instructors as a consequence of point 2 above – the solution
is to use the Part 141 requirements / syllabus or RAA’s (or a mix) for flight Instructors but remove
the requirement to hold a CPL. Progressively harmonise all instructional rules to the same level
on the occasion of the next instructor authorisation renewals. Migration achieved within 2 years.
5. Progressively harmonise maintenance rules for aircraft used for private operations within 1 year
or on the occasion of the next condition inspection whichever occurs first. Migration achieved
within 1 year.
6. Progressively migrate all RAA registered (listed) aircraft as relevant to certified production VH or
experimental VH registered aircraft to the CASA registration scheme by 1st July 2021.
7. Ensure the Act cannot be subverted in the future by using “Un-registered Aircraft” as a class of
flying machine – follow other major jurisdictions, such as the US Federal Aviation Administration.

27 Confidential

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SAAA don't pull any punches - , summary given by Oz Flying - HERE.

MTF...P2 

[Kharon]

Abandon – or adopt?

"The Sport Aircraft Association of Australia (SAAA) has called for CASA to abandon the self-administration system and transfer all aircraft to the Australian civil register in a controversial submission made public today."

Only a stray (first coffee) thought – but I wonder what the devil's advocate may say about abandoning the ASAO system. One could argue that rather than abandonment – CASA should adopt the system and make those rules the standard for 'private operations'. Rather than farm 'the system' out to for profit organisations. Make that system 'the rules'. Then all could enjoy the clearly defined benefits. 

If CASA believe that the ASAO system is an 'acceptable' risk, and an equivalent method of compliance; then why not make it so for all 'private' operations?

The benefits are as self evident as the negatives; flight training being a stand out. The CASA standard system has served this industry very well (part 61 notwithstanding) the notion of two separate standards for basic training is a nonsense. I, for one would like to know that the aircraft I share airspace with has at very least a pilot who meets the 'CASA' standard. RAOz may well train to an equivalent standard, if they do and CASA find that acceptable – then why is that not the 'national' benchmark?

No matter – it just confounds me that there exists two systems and standards. Why? It achieves little except create friction and confusion. If the ASAO 'light' system is a good enough sauce for the goose, then surely it is as good for the gander.

Toot toot.

[Peetwo]

Submission 26 (SAAA - )  

Via: https://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Bus...ubmissions

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26 Sports Aircraft Association of Australia (SAAA) (PDF 4682 KB)   

We suggest the following practical transition pathway commencing 31st January 2021:

1. Progressively convert all RAA Recreational Pilot Certificate (RPC) holders to a Part 61
Recreational Pilot Licence (RPL). Pick up the skill and knowledge differences as part of the
existing pilot Flight Review processes. Migration achieved within 2 years.
2. Either pathway the RAA flight schools to Part 141 (under which all other flight schools are required
to operate) or pathway the Part 141 schools to the RAA manual for private pilot licences – or find
some middle ground. Transition commenced by end 2021.
3. Progressively harmonise the pilot medical standards for all private pilots to those consistent with
the RAA manual on the occasion of next (annual) renewals. Migration achieved within 1 year.
4. Address the management of Flight Instructors as a consequence of point 2 above – the solution
is to use the Part 141 requirements / syllabus or RAA’s (or a mix) for flight Instructors but remove
the requirement to hold a CPL. Progressively harmonise all instructional rules to the same level
on the occasion of the next instructor authorisation renewals. Migration achieved within 2 years.
5. Progressively harmonise maintenance rules for aircraft used for private operations within 1 year
or on the occasion of the next condition inspection whichever occurs first. Migration achieved
within 1 year.
6. Progressively migrate all RAA registered (listed) aircraft as relevant to certified production VH or
experimental VH registered aircraft to the CASA registration scheme by 1st July 2021.
7. Ensure the Act cannot be subverted in the future by using “Un-registered Aircraft” as a class of
flying machine – follow other major jurisdictions, such as the US Federal Aviation Administration.

27 Confidential

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SAAA don't pull any punches - , summary given by Oz Flying - HERE.

Addendum:

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SAAA:  CAN SPORT & RECREATIONAL AVIATION BE UNIFIED UNDER ONE REGULATORY SYSTEM?

Join the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association of Australia for an open and candid conversation with the Sport Aircraft Association of Australia, discussing their recent submission to the Senate RRAT Inquiry,that outlines a plan to unify sport and recreational aviation under one regulatory system.

THIS WEEKS PANELISTS
Mr Tony White:  President of the Sport Aircraft Association of Australia
Mr John Smith:  Vice President of the Sport Aircraft Association of Australia

And for comments go HERE

For mine, comment of the session:

Eddie Kuyper  · 27:59 I have a PPL and a RPC a RAAus Reg aircraft and a level 2 medical “for CASA audit” all I want is a self assessment medical and my own maintenance I’ve done the RAAus maintenance course and the WB course I want a simple life

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MTF...P2 

[P7_TOM]

Long as I can see the light – or;

Did you ever watch the 'real deal' at work? Proper masters of their craft; the LAME with fingers like a muscular centipede fixing a thing within heartbeats; or, a cabinet maker chop out a two inch deep mortise within a thousandth of an inch, dead plumb, and make it look simple; or, any master of their craft 'nailing it'? Well, watch this space – HERE - . PM&C are the 'real deal' not to many apprentices or worker drones get to be in that crew. IF and it's not too big an 'if' they can see a way to relieve the intolerable burden loaded onto the aviation donkey – then maybe the true masters of the political 'craft' will show their skill. Before this bloody virus turned up, aviation was struggling; to return the industry to its former glory – creating jobs and opportunities, returning revenue and generally being bloody handy it needs a serious hand to 'rationalise' the rules under which the industry must operate to be 'trimmed'.

The wording is 'fluffy' – but if the PM&C weigh in – the excess may just be trimmed off. Up to those with access to the political system to speak up – not for their 'own' agenda but for every struggling man-jack out there trying to earn a honest crust. Fingers crossed children – this is like a movie where the 'hero' manages at the very last minute to save the damsel in distress. (NO GD – I am not wearing dis dress; fool) . Let's all hope that this is not some smoke and mirror placebo.

"PM&C will work with all Government policy departments, providing a consistent and coordinated approach to how they share and embed improved regulator performance," a spokesperson said. "It will cover all Commonwealth regulators, across all sectors. "

Said it a while ago – the only true hope lays within the ambit of the DAS.

“However, the power to regulate aviation safety lies not with any governmental department, but in the hands the CASA Director of Aviation Safety (DAS), a safeguard against political interference. Consequently, any deregulation agenda put forward will need the co-operation of CASA for it to succeed. "

If we are gifted another 'Bum' DAS – its time to toddle off, buy a fishing rod, rent a caravan and make a pilgrimage to the nearest pub every dole cheque day. I shall make a votive offering to the pagan gods which reside in 'K's' old fridge, right next to the keg; they're as good as any and often work small miracles. Expect the worst – hope for the best. That's it.

[Peetwo]

Long as I can see the light – or;

Did you ever watch the 'real deal' at work? Proper masters of their craft; the LAME with fingers like a muscular centipede fixing a thing within heartbeats; or, a cabinet maker chop out a two inch deep mortise within a thousandth of an inch, dead plumb, and make it look simple; or, any master of their craft 'nailing it'? Well, watch this space – HERE - . PM&C are the 'real deal' not to many apprentices or worker drones get to be in that crew. IF and it's not too big an 'if' they can see a way to relieve the intolerable burden loaded onto the aviation donkey – then maybe the true masters of the political 'craft' will show their skill. Before this bloody virus turned up, aviation was struggling; to return the industry to its former glory – creating jobs and opportunities, returning revenue and generally being bloody handy it needs a serious hand to 'rationalise' the rules under which the industry must operate to be 'trimmed'.

The wording is 'fluffy' – but if the PM&C weigh in – the excess may just be trimmed off. Up to those with access to the political system to speak up – not for their 'own' agenda but for every struggling man-jack out there trying to earn a honest crust. Fingers crossed children – this is like a movie where the 'hero' manages at the very last minute to save the damsel in distress. (NO GD – I am not wearing dis dress; fool) . Let's all hope that this is not some smoke and mirror placebo.

"PM&C will work with all Government policy departments, providing a consistent and coordinated approach to how they share and embed improved regulator performance," a spokesperson said. "It will cover all Commonwealth regulators, across all sectors. "

Said it a while ago – the only true hope lays within the ambit of the DAS.

“However, the power to regulate aviation safety lies not with any governmental department, but in the hands the CASA Director of Aviation Safety (DAS), a safeguard against political interference. Consequently, any deregulation agenda put forward will need the co-operation of CASA for it to succeed. "

If we are gifted another 'Bum' DAS – its time to toddle off, buy a fishing rod, rent a caravan and make a pilgrimage to the nearest pub every dole cheque day. I shall make a votive offering to the pagan gods which reside in 'K's' old fridge, right next to the keg; they're as good as any and often work small miracles. Expect the worst – hope for the best. That's it.

Plus from the GA Inquiry webpage: Submission 29 & 30.

29 Name Withheld (PDF 1368 KB) 

30 Mr Peter Cromarty (PDF 175 KB) 

Recommendation 1: A survey should be commissioned to study the age demographic of people in general aviation. The study should differentiate between those who fly for pleasure, those who want a professional career in GA (eg instructors) and those who are learning to fly to become airline transport pilots (who will leave the GA cohort).

Recommendation 2: If the government wishes to give GA greater support where CASA is concerned
or just to raise the profile of GA with CASA, the Minister should give CASA’s Board explicit directions
in the Statement of Expectations in whatever areas it determines appropriate.

Recommendation 3: With reference to the Minister’s Statement of Expectations paragraph ©, the
government should direct CASA in specific terms to take a “pragmatic, practical and proportionate
approach to regulation” as it applies to the industry sector of GA, bearing in mind that the
government considers the loss of 380 lives per annum in one State in the industry sector of Public
Roads to be tolerable in risk terms.

Recommendation 4:The General Aviation Advisory Network (GAAN) should make publicly available
on the Department’s website the minutes of its meetings.

Recommendation 5: The GAAN should make publicly available on the Department’s website the
progress on its priorities in the GA Flight Plan including any draft “strategic outlook”.

Recommendation 6: At the end of each GAAN meeting, there should be a 5-minute discussion of the
productivity, commitment and effectiveness of that meeting which should be minuted.

MTF...P2

[Peetwo]

Submission 28 - AIPA. 

Via APH:

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 28 Australian & International Pilots Association (PDF 514 KB) 

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The politics of aviation safety regulation

In his submissions3 to this and other Inquiries, Clinton McKenzie makes a number of
statements about the characterisation of safety regulation decisions with which we
agree. In particular, he makes the point that:

…the setting of the standards to be enforced by the regulator in the first place is
essentially a political decision, not a technical decision…

AIPA considers that characterisation to be as valid now as it was when made to the
ASRR.

It often seems to AIPA that Ministers in governments of all persuasion strenuously
avoid any direct involvement in safety-related decision-making on the apparent basis
that such involvement is open to criticism of political interference with an independent
technically-expert agency. It seems to us that DITRDC has displayed similar
symptoms to the various Ministers, although we cannot determine whether that is as
the chicken or the egg. Unfortunately, the unpalatability of greater political involvement
with aviation safety policy setting invariably results in the emergence of a relatively
unrestrained technocracy. This ‘independence’ is a double-edged sword: on one hand,
the Minister is largely insulated from CASA’s activities, while on the other, CASA is
largely isolated from political support.

The insulation is aided by a preference for seeking multi-layered advice. Apart from
the traditional source of advice from DITRDC, the Minister has industry advisory panels
as well as the CASA Board. The Director of Aviation Safety (DAS) also has his
Aviation Safety Advisory Panel (ASAP) and the related Technical Working Groups
(TWGs). However, the isolation aspect comes from the legislated empowerment of the
DAS alone – a responsibility that no amount of advice or delegation can diffuse.
The biggest problem from these advisory structures is the implied power and thus the
endemic political pressure that comes with them. That political pressure is distinctly
different from the politics of elected representatives, in that it is the politics of special
interest groups. It would be more tolerable if all parts of the aviation industry had
relevant input, but unfortunately each advisory structure is wholly or predominantly
representative of vested commercial interests with minimal balance from those in the
front line who are directly conducting the very aviation activities that we want to remain
safe.

AIPA firmly reiterates that it is a complete misapprehension for anyone involved in
aviation safety to believe that the commercial entities involved in aviation properly
represent the interests of their workforces. There is abundant evidence, particularly in
the fatigue management space, of the risks that those commercial entities are prepared
to tolerate in order to protect their profit margins.

In many ways, the most direct special-interest political pressure applied to the DAS
comes from the CASA Board. It is not clear to us what specific value having a Board is
supposed to bring to CASA, at least in the normal sense of corporate governance,
since it is incapable of making the political decisions required of government and
seems to have failed to prevent the excesses of regulatory overreach or the imposition
of unnecessary costs.

In any event, it has been suggested that the Board harbours two main dangers: one,
the potential for the Chair to attempt to usurp the DAS’ authority; and two, the number
of Board members at various times who have held senior positions or are otherwise
affiliated with the RAAA.

To be very clear, AIPA has no governance concerns with the current Chair - our
observation relates to past and, potentially, future Chairs. It has been suggested that
at least two previous Chairs have tried inappropriately to act as if they were the DAS
and we are not convinced that an activist Chair could not repeat that failure in the
future.

We are concerned about the apparent regular over-representation of RAAA-affiliated
members on the Board. Based on our observations of the RAAA in various CASA
consultations and more generally, AIPA has come to the view that the organisation has
a regressive agenda aimed at preventing any change in safety regulation that may
impact on the current compliance imposts on their members. While we are opposed to
the imposition of unnecessary or excessive costs, we also consider that there are some
costs that are justified on safety grounds but have heretofore been avoided by the
acceptance of excessive risk – a balance that we see as lacking in the RAAA
representations, no more so than in the fatigue management space.

The RAAA modus operandi that deliberately confuses the absence of evidence as
evidence of the absence of risk is most concerning. AIPA considers that an excess of
political influence in support of RAAA imperatives has led to the continual deferral of
the fatigue management rules published by CASA in 2013 in order to perpetuate
decades-older rules that CASA confirmed as potentially unsafe. Australia’s 2013 rules
demonstrated a world-leading respect for fatigue science that was subsequently
acknowledged by a number of international regulators as a benchmark, yet they have
since been traduced by commercial interests. Additionally, CASA’s reputation for
political independence has been squandered by activist Boards and a compliant public
service DAS.

Good people generating bad outcomes

Another important point made by Clinton McKenzie in his submissions is that
a safety regulator is fundamentally conflicted if it is made or left to run the process
that determines the substance of the regulator's own role in the regulatory regime it
administers.4

AIPA agrees with that assessment in the context of the bureaucratic propensity to feed
itself, noting that this conflicted role has continued unabated for many decades without
any obvious signs of intervention by DITRDC as the oversight agency. However, we
see CASA’s ever increasing entry control activities as being an accidental by-product of
that conflict, since there is little evidence in CASA’s performance history that would
suggest any capability to manage a conspiracy.

We also strongly support the following observation:

The weight of evidence demonstrates that continuing to 'leave it to the
professionals in CASA' will result in ever-increasing complexity with corresponding
ever-increasing costs, as each incident and each exaggerated risk results in
harmful regulatory overreactions, as each year and decade of the regulatory reform
program rolls past and yet more pages of rules are imposed on the practically
powerless.5

The imposition by government of the “user pays” requirement has the propensity to
magnify the impact of well-meaning decisions to require a range of approvals,
permissions, variations and the apparently endless range of statutory authorisations.
AIPA has no doubt that the CASA people developing the rules have the best of
intentions in trying to solve what they consider safety problems or trying to mitigate
risks to existing safety standards. However, the standards development culture within
CASA means that hundreds of individually developed solutions for minor problems may
be thrown into a regulatory bucket so large that apparently no CASA executive can
sufficiently distance themselves from it to see the enormity of the regulatory nightmare
that often results.

Part 61 is a classic example.

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MTF...P2 

[P7_TOM]

Incredible, the parallels: awesome.

and, with just a soupcon of imagination you can change the words from 'tattooed' lady to 'bearded' without exerting too many brain cells. A collection of face fungus and a plausible rendition of the 'three Billy goats Gruff' starred at the strictly 'non event' Senate woftam event today.

Our three bearded Billy goats; trip trapped over the rickety bridge, completely bamboozling the Senate troll. Blithely slipping away to pastures new, lush and easy. The Troll went hungry. There is a moral in there some where; seems to me those bearded Billy goats got off bloody lightly, considering the mess they left behind in their own paddock and the wanton take over of a newer, greener one without a 'beg pardon'.



Aye, the Senators were a bit slow off the mark today: Sterle had the right of it; write the questions; put 'em 'on notice' and depart the room for more convivial, productive surroundings. McDonald was about as much use as a chocolate frying pan. No matter; we have managed to capture some images of the newly bearded trio – and one of Hoody – just so the Senators can recognise them next time they turn up 'Mit Bard' so to speak – just in case they get even more confused than they seem to be at present.

No matter, there's always more Ale - “more, more Ale here; now please, I have a great need for mental solace and balm for my soul. “The toast gentlemen is – "Bearded Ladies and Bullshit”. And, twelve good men and true raise their glasses.

[Kharon]

IF YOU READ NOTHING ELSE this week; please take a moment to read – THIS – from the erudite, articulate 'Lead Balloon' on the UP forum.

We will ensure it gets delivered to the Senate RRAT crew; it may provide a pathway to sanity and a clear line to the committee actually achieving some kind of result; even at the glacial speed they move at. If yesterday's pathetic effort is what we may expect in the anticipated 'inquiry', then that committee needs all the help it can get.

[Peetwo]

AOPA OZ & RRAT COMM catching up -   


Ref: https://auntypru.com/sbg-22-03-20-a-three-card-monte/

 - It has taken a while but has the penny finally dropped on the implications of having a private entity regulating and carrying out accident investigations on itself?

Via Youtube (from about 2:43):

The media report (08:40) to which Sic'em'Rex refers is (I believe) this one from BM at AOPA Oz:

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WHO IS REGULATING WHO? RAAUS REFUSE TO PUBLISH ACCIDENT REPORTS

October 20, 2020 By Benjamin Morgan



AOPA Australia CEO Mr Benjamin Morgan provides an opinion on the refusal of RAAus to allow CASA to publish its accident investigation reports to manufacturers, denying industry the opportunity to learn. Who is regulating who in Australian skies?



Each October the Recreational Aviation Australia celebrates their ‘Safety Month’, with iconic Australian aviation brands such as QBE Insurance and RedBull Air Race champion, Matt Hall, all joining the effort. But just how committed the RAAus are to the safety of their members and industry remains to be seen, following a stunning refusal by RAAus to publish its accident investigation reports. A case of do as we say, but not as we do.

RAAus, according to a communication from CASA, have refused the regulator permission to publish any of its accident investigation reports, denying manufactures of RAAus registerable aircraft access.

The decision contradicts the messaging of QBE Ambassador, RedBull Air Race Champion, and RAAus Spokesperson Matt Hall, who states;

“… at RAAus we want to make sure that people are willing to talk about their incidents… so that other people can learn from those incidents… other people can benefit. And, we can reduce the chances of those incidents happening again… RAAus operates a fair and open reporting policy… we want to make sure that members feel safe… and not be worried about repercussions or judgment…”

Accident Reports for aircraft registered with RA-Aus are not published for the public nor are they supplied to the manufacturers. These reports are sealed by the RAAus under strict confidentiality never to be seen by their members, and in many cases, their own Board of Directors, with the industry denied the opportunity to learn from past mistakes.

Approached for a copy of the RAAus accident report for the Bristell accident at Clyde in Victoria, CASA has indicated that consent is required from RA-Aus to access the report and that consent has been denied by the RA-Aus. This stunning refusal now raises the question as to who is regulating whom? And, just how committed CASA and RAAus are to their so-called ‘Safety Month’ or ‘Safe Skies for All’ slogans.

CASA has the function of conducting the safety of civil air operations in Australia. Section 9A of the Civil Aviation Act states;

“In exercising its powers and performing its functions, CASA must regard the safety of air navigation as the most important consideration”

Contrary to the response from CASA, claiming it cannot release the report;

CASA has delegated powers to RAAus pursuant to CAO 95.55, however, CASA did not abdicate its s9A of the Civil Aviation Act responsibility.
For CASA to defer to RAAus for permission to disclose an accident report conducted by its delegate, RAAus, before it will be released to the manufacturer of the aircraft involved in the accident, is to ignore CASA’s primary obligation under section 9A of the Act and instead it has put the interests of RAAus ahead of the public interest, being that the results of the report into the Clyde accident be made publicly available, and in particular, to the manufacturer of the Bristell aircraft, which has been subjected to undue criticism by CASA and RAAus;
The results of the investigation into the Clyde accident must be released, otherwise nobody will know what happened;
It is not good enough for RAAus to have an apparently exclusive power to investigate Light Sport Aircraft accidents on the RA-Aus register but an apparent discretion as to whether or not it will release the reports of its accident investigation, and/or whether or not it will consent to CASA (which has the ultimate responsibility for the safety of civil air operations) to release its reports; and
The public needs to know and have confidence that those in authority with the power to conduct air accident investigations, do properly conduct those air accident investigations, and do make the reports publicly available.
The CASA/RAAus refusal is both stark and alarming, and raises a significant question; What are CASA/RAAus hiding?

The manufacturer of the Bristell aircraft is entitled to a copy of any RAAus accident investigations and/or reports that involves its aircraft for clear safety reasons, enabling the manufacturer to determine/address any safety issues that may have arisen. Yet, they are refused this essential safety function, with CASA hiding behind RAAus, and RAAus hiding behind its private self-administration status.

Make no mistake. the CASA/RAAus refusal to release accident reports stinks of corruption and backside covering. Their refusal communicates this loudly. This decision alone should become the focus of a serious independent Government inquiry.

The refusal by RAAus to release its accident report denies our industry the opportunity to independently review and assess the performance of the RAAus with respect to safety. It is in the public interest that investigations into RA-Aus aircraft accidents are properly carried out and that the results of the investigation are made publicly available.

Sealing these accident investigations and reports only serve to hide mistakes and will undoubtedly foster a negative safety culture. Pilots, aircraft owners, and manufacturers cannot learn from reports that are suppressed. The objective of the RAAus safety initiatives cannot be achieved.

A little more from RAAus Spokesperson, Matt Hall;

“So what RAAus want to do is encourage pilots to talk about their incidents… it helps the individual learn, but it helps the wider community. We allow people to learn from other people’s mistakes and reduce the chances of that incident happening again. At RAAus if something goes wrong, tell us about it.”

Well, taking Matt Hall’s advice, AOPA Australia is respectfully calling out RAAus on this issue. What RAAus are doing in suppressing accident investigation reports is wrong, and we are calling on them to demonstrate their commitment to safety, by immediately releasing them to improve safety.

AOPA Australia has today written to the RAAus Board of Directors, CASA Director of Aviation Safety, CASA Board of Directors, the Deputy Prime Minister, and the Senate Rural Regional Affairs Transport Committee, calling for all RAAus accident investigation reports to be made public.

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In case Rex, the Committee etc..etc missed it here is a link to a (rather longish - ) post of mine that I made back in January this year:

RAAus v ATSB: Occurrence reporting disconnections?

I would suggest, that on the subject matter of RA Oz accident investigation, it is required reading for Rex, the Chair and the RRAT committee -

MTF...P2

[Peetwo]

Ref: https://auntypru.com/sbg-3-11-19-an-ode-...s-commode/

IOS call to arms and action - Part I 

First Sandy with my nomination for POTM (post of the month) -  :

It is extraordinary that the message of the General Aviation (GA) disaster has not got through to the Senators in Committee in the measure or fullness that it deserves. I can only postulate that what has transpired to the GA industry, and to numerous individuals within GA, has been so devastating and extreme that Members of Parliament find it hard to believe that the well paid servants (so called) of the People of Australia could create such mayhem, individual suffering, colossal job losses, business closures and a virtually complete loss of faith in our Commonwealth Government in regard to anything aviation. The wreckage of a once growing and lively GA industry can’t be apparent to the outside observer because there’s no present day comparison. Even to newcomers in GA they can have no experience of yesteryear therefore there’s a lack of appreciation that cannot be overcome without study and seeking out knowledge. 

Importantly, MPs could move us towards some real reform, and start a track towards growth for jobs, businesses and services in GA but first they must realise that an independent corporate like the Civil Aviation Safety Authority will never own up to the disaster or what is causing it. They have no incentives to jeopardise their tremendous salary packages and cushy working conditions, quite apart from the all too obvious factors of hubris and ego.

To rationalise just one area of CASA’s monumental regulatory failure, Part 61, would entail losing the ability to charge swinging fees for all sorts of unnecessary permissions. In the area of Recreational Aviation Australia (RAAUS), the private company that the Commonwealth has given monopoly control in the low weight category, this outrageous move some years ago has created a very bad distortion in the GA industry and the light aircraft market. This low weight category should never have been split off from the rest of GA, it should be part of a graduated system with a common pathway. The very notion of inducing aviators into these tiny aircraft is wrong. Induced by way of a sensible personal medical fitness to fly standard as opposed to the costly, intimidating and extreme private pilot medical regime of the standard CASA examination, that which is required to fly a VH registered aircraft. Many RAAUS aircraft are built hard up against the artificial limit of all up weight of 600kg, an engineering wrong because aircraft should be engineered to a purpose, not a weight. Moving more people into such small aircraft beggars belief, and proof of it’s unviability the fact that RAAUS wants to up the weight limit to 750 kg now and maybe 1500kg in the future.

The MPs would do well to investigate the ability to set up particular GA functions, take flying training as the backbone of GA here is a very good example, the permission to operate a flying school. Applicants have been forced, by the monopolistic behemoth CASA, to pay upwards of $100,000 and wait months or years to achieve a permit. In the USA a fresh instructor can start training immediately with an official book that costs $15.99.

There’s one other stumbling block, all of CASA’s main suit of regulations have been passed by Parliament and the Parliament has been either too trusting, naive, or hopelessly ignorant depending on your point of view. Personally it would be a most welcome starting point for Parliamentarians to consider that over many years that Parliament has actually been negligent in this area because it always has the final responsibility.

Will the present Senate inquiry under Chair Senator McDonald make the slightest difference?

Watching a video of proceedings yesterday with CASA CEO Mr. Carmody fielding a few critical questions, but questions so broad to be then easily batted, makes me doubt that any good will come from this inquiry. Well intentioned certainly, but without a real plan of inquiry informed by the GA community in detail this will be simply a repetition of the comprehensive but discarded Forsyth report of 2014.

This present Senate Committee will find that there’s little to be gained by asking CASA anything, it will be far better employed looking at the regulatory environment of the USA by way of comparison. It may then be able to make a rational recommendation to completely change the current unworkable, costly and thoroughly unfit model of governance that we’ve been saddled with since 1988.

Next outgoing CASA CEO/DAS St Commode's typically arrogant, flip the bird reply email to GlenB's email correspondence to RRAT Committee Chair Senator Susan McDonald -   
 

OFFICIAL
 
Dear Mr Buckley,
 
Thank you for your email.
 
I have reviewed the video testimony of my appearance on Tuesday afternoon and advise that I responded appropriately to the question from Senator McDonald: “Is it correct that there’s been a settlement made with Mr Buckley recently?”.
 
My response: “Senator, partially.  There has been no settlement made.  Mr Buckley put in a complaint about a CASA officer with regard to defamation and said that the CASA officer defamed him.  CASA’s lawyers, because we have external lawyers acting on our behalf because it’s a liability for CASA, offered a small settlement to Mr Buckley and he declined.  That is the only settlement matter that I am aware of.”
 
This was a direct response to a direct question regarding a settlement. 
 
There were no questions asked around other matters, including those currently with the Commonwealth Ombudsman. 
 
I was prepared to answer any questions regarding your numerous assertions and allegations, had such questions been raised. 

They were not.
 
Regards

Shane  

And GlenB's succinct, nailed it reply -  : "..it’s all about intent! Mr Carmody. intent, integrity, honesty and a moral compass.."



Finally, 2 days ago Oz Aviation put out the following article which encompassed several typically ignorant, ill informed,  statement's from miniscule McDonaught...

CASA STAFF PUSHED ‘TO THE BRINK’, SAYS PROFESSIONALS AUSTRALIA

written by Adam Thorn October 21, 2020



Professionals Australia has claimed CASA has let staffing numbers at its Southern Region office drop from 53 to just 24, which it argues is causing “excessive overwork”.

The union also accused the organisation of pushing employees “to the brink” by a “broken workplace culture” in comments released to coincide with its submission to a senate committee investigating CASA’s effectiveness.

Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack rejected the concerns and said CASA is confident it has the “necessary number of qualified staff” to provide essential services.

The Senate rural and regional affairs and transport legislation committee is currently investigating the state of general aviation in rural Australia.

In comments released alongside its submission, Professionals Australia director Dale Beasley said CASA’s staffing numbers had dropped and its Southern Region office has had “six different managers in seven years”.

“CASA’s stubborn refusal to replace these vacant technical air safety positions has resulted in excessive overwork, a major reduction in face to face audits and fewer field inspections, and the impacts are being felt right across the country,” said Beasley.

“In Brisbane, the number of CASA Safety Systems Inspectors was reduced from six to just 1.4 full-time positions.

“This meant that despite the significant changes and potential risks impacting Virgin Australia, CASA had no inspector specialising in change and risk management assigned to the team oversighting the airline.

“This has occurred as Virgin entered into administration, slashed operations and jobs, placed aircraft into storage or sold them off.”

Beasley added that CASA staff are being let down by “dysfunctional senior management”.

“At a time when Australia’s aviation sector is beginning to recover from the COVID-19 induced economic downturn, it’s absolutely vital that CASA has the workplace culture and safety systems to support the industry throughout this vital period of rebuilding,” he said.

However, Deputy PM McCormack played down the concerns and said the government will take any recommendations from the Senate committee’s findings on board.

“We are committed to supporting a strong and sustainable aviation industry. Aviation safety remains essential and ongoing even though regular passenger transport operations are currently reduced,” said Deputy PM McCormack.

“That’s why our government has ensured the Civil Aviation Safety Authority is appropriately funded over the 2020–21 financial year, enabling them to maintain necessary staffing levels and provide the level of service expected by the flying public.

“CASA has said it is confident it has the necessary number of qualified staff to provide its essential services. CASA uses a centralised, cross-regional office approach to the assessment and approval of regulatory service applications, which allows for the required workforce availability.

“CASA staff feedback provided through the 2019 Australian Public Service Census indicated strengths in their workplace culture. This includes strong employee engagement (72 per cent of respondents agreeing), strong feedback that staff are proud to work at CASA (77 per cent) and aligned to the organisation’s values (91 per cent), as well as high levels of engagement and confidence in their direct managers (78 per cent).”

The Senate committee will present its interim report on or before the final sitting day of December 2020, and its final report on or before the final sitting day of November 2021. 

Hmm...perhaps a penny drops - "..The Senate committee will present its interim report on or before the final sitting day of December 2020.."

The final sitting day is listed for the 10 of December...

Now watch the CASA Estimates Part I video again:

Ref: St Commode's (aka Colonel Sanders -   ) last HURRAH at Senate Estimates -   
 
MTF...P2 

ps I note that the patron Saint of Oz aviation safety wasn't given much love from the good Senators in his final appearance at Senate Estimates, therefore as a parting gesture the IOS and BRB have forwarded a virtually framed Google image - see HERE -  version of the Ferryman's 'An Ode to Odious Commode'...   

pps Let her RIP Bruce 

[Sandy Reith]

Great to see our Supreme Aviation Leader, otherwise known by the comical misnomer of ‘Director of Air Safety’ trying to hide behind the white fluff of a beard that been itching to be in fashion. Note that all CASA’s people, with the exception of the ladies seem now to be equally in the fashion du jour.

Too bad its not been fashionable to look after the General Aviation industry, that forlorn community has been conspicuously out of fashion by the CASASTROPHE for more than thirty years.

[Peetwo]

Ref: https://auntypru.com/sbg-3-11-19-an-ode-...s-commode/

IOS call to arms and action - Part I 

First Sandy with my nomination for POTM (post of the month) -  :

It is extraordinary that the message of the General Aviation (GA) disaster has not got through to the Senators in Committee in the measure or fullness that it deserves. I can only postulate that what has transpired to the GA industry, and to numerous individuals within GA, has been so devastating and extreme that Members of Parliament find it hard to believe that the well paid servants (so called) of the People of Australia could create such mayhem, individual suffering, colossal job losses, business closures and a virtually complete loss of faith in our Commonwealth Government in regard to anything aviation. The wreckage of a once growing and lively GA industry can’t be apparent to the outside observer because there’s no present day comparison. Even to newcomers in GA they can have no experience of yesteryear therefore there’s a lack of appreciation that cannot be overcome without study and seeking out knowledge. 

Importantly, MPs could move us towards some real reform, and start a track towards growth for jobs, businesses and services in GA but first they must realise that an independent corporate like the Civil Aviation Safety Authority will never own up to the disaster or what is causing it. They have no incentives to jeopardise their tremendous salary packages and cushy working conditions, quite apart from the all too obvious factors of hubris and ego.

To rationalise just one area of CASA’s monumental regulatory failure, Part 61, would entail losing the ability to charge swinging fees for all sorts of unnecessary permissions. In the area of Recreational Aviation Australia (RAAUS), the private company that the Commonwealth has given monopoly control in the low weight category, this outrageous move some years ago has created a very bad distortion in the GA industry and the light aircraft market. This low weight category should never have been split off from the rest of GA, it should be part of a graduated system with a common pathway. The very notion of inducing aviators into these tiny aircraft is wrong. Induced by way of a sensible personal medical fitness to fly standard as opposed to the costly, intimidating and extreme private pilot medical regime of the standard CASA examination, that which is required to fly a VH registered aircraft. Many RAAUS aircraft are built hard up against the artificial limit of all up weight of 600kg, an engineering wrong because aircraft should be engineered to a purpose, not a weight. Moving more people into such small aircraft beggars belief, and proof of it’s unviability the fact that RAAUS wants to up the weight limit to 750 kg now and maybe 1500kg in the future.

The MPs would do well to investigate the ability to set up particular GA functions, take flying training as the backbone of GA here is a very good example, the permission to operate a flying school. Applicants have been forced, by the monopolistic behemoth CASA, to pay upwards of $100,000 and wait months or years to achieve a permit. In the USA a fresh instructor can start training immediately with an official book that costs $15.99.

There’s one other stumbling block, all of CASA’s main suit of regulations have been passed by Parliament and the Parliament has been either too trusting, naive, or hopelessly ignorant depending on your point of view. Personally it would be a most welcome starting point for Parliamentarians to consider that over many years that Parliament has actually been negligent in this area because it always has the final responsibility.

Will the present Senate inquiry under Chair Senator McDonald make the slightest difference?

Watching a video of proceedings yesterday with CASA CEO Mr. Carmody fielding a few critical questions, but questions so broad to be then easily batted, makes me doubt that any good will come from this inquiry. Well intentioned certainly, but without a real plan of inquiry informed by the GA community in detail this will be simply a repetition of the comprehensive but discarded Forsyth report of 2014.

This present Senate Committee will find that there’s little to be gained by asking CASA anything, it will be far better employed looking at the regulatory environment of the USA by way of comparison. It may then be able to make a rational recommendation to completely change the current unworkable, costly and thoroughly unfit model of governance that we’ve been saddled with since 1988.

Next outgoing CASA CEO/DAS St Commode's typically arrogant, flip the bird reply email to GlenB's email correspondence to RRAT Committee Chair Senator Susan McDonald -   
 

OFFICIAL
 
Dear Mr Buckley,
 
Thank you for your email.
 
I have reviewed the video testimony of my appearance on Tuesday afternoon and advise that I responded appropriately to the question from Senator McDonald: “Is it correct that there’s been a settlement made with Mr Buckley recently?”.
 
My response: “Senator, partially.  There has been no settlement made.  Mr Buckley put in a complaint about a CASA officer with regard to defamation and said that the CASA officer defamed him.  CASA’s lawyers, because we have external lawyers acting on our behalf because it’s a liability for CASA, offered a small settlement to Mr Buckley and he declined.  That is the only settlement matter that I am aware of.”
 
This was a direct response to a direct question regarding a settlement. 
 
There were no questions asked around other matters, including those currently with the Commonwealth Ombudsman. 
 
I was prepared to answer any questions regarding your numerous assertions and allegations, had such questions been raised. 

They were not.
 
Regards

Shane  

And GlenB's succinct, nailed it reply -  : "..it’s all about intent! Mr Carmody. intent, integrity, honesty and a moral compass.."



Finally, 2 days ago Oz Aviation put out the following article which encompassed several typically ignorant, ill informed,  statement's from miniscule McDonaught...

CASA STAFF PUSHED ‘TO THE BRINK’, SAYS PROFESSIONALS AUSTRALIA

written by Adam Thorn October 21, 2020



Professionals Australia has claimed CASA has let staffing numbers at its Southern Region office drop from 53 to just 24, which it argues is causing “excessive overwork”.

The union also accused the organisation of pushing employees “to the brink” by a “broken workplace culture” in comments released to coincide with its submission to a senate committee investigating CASA’s effectiveness.

Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack rejected the concerns and said CASA is confident it has the “necessary number of qualified staff” to provide essential services.

The Senate rural and regional affairs and transport legislation committee is currently investigating the state of general aviation in rural Australia.

In comments released alongside its submission, Professionals Australia director Dale Beasley said CASA’s staffing numbers had dropped and its Southern Region office has had “six different managers in seven years”.

“CASA’s stubborn refusal to replace these vacant technical air safety positions has resulted in excessive overwork, a major reduction in face to face audits and fewer field inspections, and the impacts are being felt right across the country,” said Beasley.

“In Brisbane, the number of CASA Safety Systems Inspectors was reduced from six to just 1.4 full-time positions.

“This meant that despite the significant changes and potential risks impacting Virgin Australia, CASA had no inspector specialising in change and risk management assigned to the team oversighting the airline.

“This has occurred as Virgin entered into administration, slashed operations and jobs, placed aircraft into storage or sold them off.”

Beasley added that CASA staff are being let down by “dysfunctional senior management”.

“At a time when Australia’s aviation sector is beginning to recover from the COVID-19 induced economic downturn, it’s absolutely vital that CASA has the workplace culture and safety systems to support the industry throughout this vital period of rebuilding,” he said.

However, Deputy PM McCormack played down the concerns and said the government will take any recommendations from the Senate committee’s findings on board.

“We are committed to supporting a strong and sustainable aviation industry. Aviation safety remains essential and ongoing even though regular passenger transport operations are currently reduced,” said Deputy PM McCormack.

“That’s why our government has ensured the Civil Aviation Safety Authority is appropriately funded over the 2020–21 financial year, enabling them to maintain necessary staffing levels and provide the level of service expected by the flying public.

“CASA has said it is confident it has the necessary number of qualified staff to provide its essential services. CASA uses a centralised, cross-regional office approach to the assessment and approval of regulatory service applications, which allows for the required workforce availability.

“CASA staff feedback provided through the 2019 Australian Public Service Census indicated strengths in their workplace culture. This includes strong employee engagement (72 per cent of respondents agreeing), strong feedback that staff are proud to work at CASA (77 per cent) and aligned to the organisation’s values (91 per cent), as well as high levels of engagement and confidence in their direct managers (78 per cent).”

The Senate committee will present its interim report on or before the final sitting day of December 2020, and its final report on or before the final sitting day of November 2021. 

Hmm...perhaps a penny drops - "..The Senate committee will present its interim report on or before the final sitting day of December 2020.."

The final sitting day is listed for the 10 of December...

Now watch the CASA Estimates Part I video again:

Ref: St Commode's (aka Colonel Sanders -   ) last HURRAH at Senate Estimates -   
 
MTF...P2 

ps I note that the patron Saint of Oz aviation safety wasn't given much love from the good Senators in his final appearance at Senate Estimates, therefore as a parting gesture the IOS and BRB have forwarded a virtually framed Google image - see HERE -  version of the Ferryman's 'An Ode to Odious Commode'...   

pps Let her RIP Bruce 

Great to see our Supreme Aviation Leader, otherwise known by the comical misnomer of ‘Director of Air Safety’ trying to hide behind the white fluff of a beard that been itching to be in fashion. Note that all CASA’s people, with the exception of the ladies seem now to be equally in the fashion du jour.

Too bad its not been fashionable to look after the General Aviation industry, that forlorn community has been conspicuously out of fashion by the CASASTROPHE for more than thirty years.

P2 footnote: For those interested HERE is a link for the Hansard from the CASA Senate Estimates session.

[Peetwo]

Submissions 34 (Professionals Oz) & 35 (Jerry Visick)

Via the APH website - 

---

34 Professionals Australia (PDF 684 KB) 

The impact of CASA’s internal problems on the general aviation industry

The general aviation industry presents a greater regulatory challenge than commercial aviation. General aviation operators lack the scale and resources of commercial aviation and therefore need greater regulatory attention and oversight. While commercial operators have the resources to invest in and sustain robust internal operational safety systems, general aviation operates on smaller scales with more limited resources and presents CASA with different challenges.

Flight crews operating in the general aviation industry usually hold less experience than commercial crews and also tend to be operating much older aircraft. These aircraft require more care and attention as they age, yet the supporting Licenced Aircraft Maintenance Engineering workforce is diminishing at an increasing rate due to widespread retirements and a lack of new entrants.

Compounding this situation is the ageing general aviation aircraft fleet. The average age of the general aviation fleet is over 40 years, with the original design service goals being exceeded by the majority of these aircraft many decades ago. While older aircraft are not inherently unsafe (that depends on how each aircraft has been individually operated, stored and maintained over its life), older aircraft definitely require more attention to remain safe. Evidence of this occurring in industry is not readily apparent, nor is increased CASA oversight to validate appropriate regulatory oversight to manage the ageing issue.

CASA is challenged with balancing the responsibility of administering two sections of aviation with vastly different risk profiles. While commercial aviation is the area where the consequences of critical failures are significant, the likelihood of such failures occurring are lower due to the resources of operators to maintain operational safety and the high level of public scrutiny.

In general aviation, the consequences of critical safety failures are lower than with commercial airliners, however the likelihood and frequency of these failures is high, particularly when payment has been received by the operator for the carriage of passengers; for example the following recent Charter accidents:

• Beechcraft King Air VH-ZCR, Essendon Airport VIC, 21 February 2017 (5 fatalities),
• DHC-2 Beaver VH-NOO, Hawkesbury River NSW, 31 December 2017 (6 fatalities), and
• Cessna 404 Titan VH-OZO, Lockhart River QLD, 11 March 2020 (15 fatalities).

The Charter segment rightly deserves higher levels of CASA oversight and resources to more appropriately align with community safety expectations.

General aviation also has a larger operational “footprint” to be overseen, operating in regional areas not serviced by commercial aviation. This presents another challenge for CASA and the shrinking technical workforce. For example, hot air balloons are flown by small operators throughout Australia but CASA has limited capacity to oversee this area of general aviation due to only employing one hot air balloon Flying Operations Inspector.

Additionally, the self- administration system results in CASA having different levels of oversight responsibility in the general aviation space and adds another level of complexity to regulation. As the responsibility can be subcontracted to non-government organisations operating as Approved Self-administering Aviation Organisations, it’s critical that CASA has the skills and resources to oversight these organisations, otherwise blind spots in the regulation of general aviation could emerge.

35 Mr Jerry Visick (PDF 58 KB) 

..I am a CASA 21M delegate and was previously a CAR 35 delegate - for an approximate
total time of about 40 years. I have over 60 years experience in the industry and hold
an honours degree and a Masters degree in Aeronautical engineering. This is the first
time I have done anything like this and don't really know how to proceed but I do
think the situation within sections of CASA has got completely out of control and
something urgently needs to be done about it.

Up until about the period 1994 - 2000 Australia had a Regulatory Authority in the then
CAA of which we could be justifiably be very proud. The CAA punched well above it's
weight on the international scene.

Unfortunately since then the technical and engineering capability of Airworthiness has
descended to unprecedented lows to an extent that I no longer refer to CASA for any
queries or guidance. The ignorance and lack of knowledge is such that at times I feel
like a surgeon who is being lectured to by a junior nurse.

On another front CASA no longer appear to be inspecting aircraft to ensure that all
installations and modifications are carried out in accordance with approved
information. The result of this is that the log book history of Australian aircraft is
disappearing. Maintenance standards, without CASA oversight, will inevitably become
lower with an impact on aviation safety. Throughout the industry CASA is now only
viewed in derogatory terms.

If you can guide me on making a more formal submission I would be willing to do this
but will require some guidance

Best Regards

Jerry Visick
ARN 521606

---

MTF...P2

[P7_TOM]

November 20. 2020.

Is that a date which all should record? Seriously?

Buckley is out there, swimming in shark infested waters, all alone and; I might say, unassisted by the industry he represents. That industry may be forgiven for cheering (mildly) from the sidelines, while waiting for the Senate reserves to come onto the field. Just like in the movies – well life ain't more like the movies. In fact the movies have very little to do with 'real' life. The vain hope that a Senate Committee can wave a magic wand and make 'all well' is risible. Both the facts and history deny any such 'Cinderella' outcome. Actually, going on past history, Cinderella is, as likely as not, going to be fined for have foot odour and athlete's foot while visiting the local swimming pool; thus creating a public 'health scare' – much to the delight of the local Chemist (who lodged the complaint). You can of course see the plot.

I would, without hesitation, back 'the Law' over the 'Senators' in a one horse race. Look at it this way – CASA may – perhaps – just maybe win the overall 'legal' case – but that is unlikely. So, at the end of the shift – Buckley toddles off, after bills and 'square up' about break even; maybe a couple ahead. Then what?

Why nothing has really changed; has it. Buckley is paid off, shut down and the Senators are off the hook – easy- peasy. Game set and match to CASA – as is. The incumbent minister free and clear, the DoIT not troubled, CommCare writes off the payment without a care in the world – and nothing – as in Sweet Fanny Adams has really changed.

So, seriously, boys and girls, what do you imagine is needed to make any dent, whatsoever, in the CASA armour? Look at the list, study the history, grieve over the real results – for you live, and pay for those every day, supporting the cost of CASA victories.

This is the question I put to the BRB this evening (prior darts). The answer unequivocal. “There needs to a single case; one which will forever damn CASA to the Halls of Hell; from which, like the legendary Phoenix, 'aviation business' can rise from the ashes.

But from where can such a damning case be mounted? One that will, once and for all time put a full stop to the words “aviation safety”. No idea, non at all – but rest assured we are looking for the 'spike' to drive into that dark, devious heart and end this macabre pantomime. MTF?  Oh, I'd say so. The 'Bard' is my lad's metier – but I may borrow a portion, occasionally:-

“If thou wilt weep my fortunes, take my eyes.

I know thee well enough. Thy name is Gloucester.

Thou must be patient. We came crying hither.

Thou know’st the first time that we smell the air

We wawl and cry. I will preach to thee. Mark me.”

I see nothing but beers following more angry, futile heartbreak to once again commiserate those who have not been kissed on the arse by the CASA gods. But, I can wait, and wait until the blessed government have the scales of CASA generated fear removed from their eyes.

“What does reason know? Reason only knows what it has succeeded in learning...” (Dostoevsky)

Yup, I know – the quotes' but I did have a little to with his 'education'. Yes. It is your round my boy – my duty is done. Handing over...........

[Peetwo]

November 20. 2020.

Is that a date which all should record? Seriously?

Buckley is out there, swimming in shark infested waters, all alone and; I might say, unassisted by the industry he represents. That industry may be forgiven for cheering (mildly) from the sidelines, while waiting for the Senate reserves to come onto the field. Just like in the movies – well life ain't more like the movies. In fact the movies have very little to do with 'real' life. The vain hope that a Senate Committee can wave a magic wand and make 'all well' is risible. Both the facts and history deny any such 'Cinderella' outcome. Actually, going on past history, Cinderella is, as likely as not, going to be fined for have foot odour and athlete's foot while visiting the local swimming pool; thus creating a public 'health scare' – much to the delight of the local Chemist (who lodged the complaint). You can of course see the plot.

I would, without hesitation, back 'the Law' over the 'Senators' in a one horse race. Look at it this way – CASA may – perhaps – just maybe win the overall 'legal' case – but that is unlikely. So, at the end of the shift – Buckley toddles off, after bills and 'square up' about break even; maybe a couple ahead. Then what?

Why nothing has really changed; has it. Buckley is paid off, shut down and the Senators are off the hook – easy- peasy. Game set and match to CASA – as is. The incumbent minister free and clear, the DoIT not troubled, CommCare writes off the payment without a care in the world – and nothing – as in Sweet Fanny Adams has really changed.

So, seriously, boys and girls, what do you imagine is needed to make any dent, whatsoever, in the CASA armour? Look at the list, study the history, grieve over the real results – for you live, and pay for those every day, supporting the cost of CASA victories.

This is the question I put to the BRB this evening (prior darts). The answer unequivocal. “There needs to a single case; one which will forever damn CASA to the Halls of Hell; from which, like the legendary Phoenix, 'aviation business' can rise from the ashes.

But from where can such a damning case be mounted? One that will, once and for all time put a full stop to the words “aviation safety”. No idea, non at all – but rest assured we are looking for the 'spike' to drive into that dark, devious heart and end this macabre pantomime. MTF?  Oh, I'd say so. The 'Bard' is my lad's metier – but I may borrow a portion, occasionally:-

“If thou wilt weep my fortunes, take my eyes.

I know thee well enough. Thy name is Gloucester.

Thou must be patient. We came crying hither.

Thou know’st the first time that we smell the air

We wawl and cry. I will preach to thee. Mark me.”

I see nothing but beers following more angry, futile heartbreak to once again commiserate those who have not been kissed on the arse by the CASA gods. But, I can wait, and wait until the blessed government have the scales of CASA generated fear removed from their eyes.

“What does reason know? Reason only knows what it has succeeded in learning...” (Dostoevsky)

Yup, I know – the quotes' but I did have a little to with his 'education'. Yes. It is your round my boy – my duty is done. Handing over...........

[Kharon]

Shades of O'Sullivan.

From Sunny on the UP a small, but invaluable caution. GB needs to heed this pearl of wisdom.

Sunfish - “Glen, I strongly advise you to get advice and coaching on how to present yourself before the Committee. I have never been before one but I am advised that it may not be as simple as it looks, especially if one of the Senators decides to be hostile towards you and your point of view.”

It would be a mistake to assume that the 'milk of human kindness' or even 'parental understanding' will flow in the meeting. It ain't an AOPA gabfest; not by a long shot and there will be sharper minds than Morgan's asking the questions – on the record. Glen has stated that he has a preference for the 'legal' road, believing, as many do, that the Senate Committee has a poor batting average when it comes to the crunch.

This is to be a 'public' hearing – not in camera – every word spoken will be noted and studied for any 'wrinkle' which CASA can and will parley into a weapon, to be ruthlessly used. This before the 'O'Sullivan factor' kicks in. Not overt hostility; but hostility nonetheless; talked over, evidence demanded, talked down to and proof demanded, ignored essential elements of argument and the constant ticking of the clock. 'We ' (PAIN) even attended one where Sterle actually feigned sleep while O'Sullivan dismissed logic, evidence and, essentially consigned the whole matter to the ' trivial waste bin'. Disgusting - No result – so expect the worst, hope for the best and be very, very careful.

Glen has, rightly so, used 'free speech' liberally and effectively; so far so good. Time now to learn the other side of the coin – get some hostile question training and learn to guard not only his rear end, but all ends against the middle. Better yet, have legal advice on tap. P7's favourite caution is highly relevant: “engage brain before opening gob”.

Toot – toot..

P7 addendum:

O'Sofullofit - "[If you've got evidence of what you've just spoken about, you need to particularise it carefully, you need to underpin it with the physical evidence, reference it and get it to the committee]."

[Peetwo]

St Commode's last 'UP YOURS' to the IOS?? 

Putting this post here because if the good Senators ever wanted a better example of the totally corrupt, self-serving, morally moribund culture that exists within the CASA executive management and Board you can't go past the following -   

Via the UP: 

 CASA CEO - Carmody - request your support via this survey

---

Following is a request from CASA's CEO and Director of Aviation Safety Shane Carmody:

We're conducting a short survey of the aviation community to see how we're performing.

Your members' feedback will help us identify whether we've improved since our last survey two years ago, and where we still have work to do. It will focus our efforts on the things most important to our clients.

Please lend your support by encouraging your members to participate.

If you like, you could simply forward the following to your members.

CASA is conducting a 10-minute online survey of the aviation community to see how we're performing.

The survey is being conducted by an independent company, Faster Horses Consulting, so you can be perfectly frank in sharing your views. Your feedback will never be connected to you. Only de-identified aggregate survey results will be published (see the previous results on our website, for example).

Start the survey...

https://fasterhorses.au1.qualtrics.c...m_medium=Email

We strongly encourage you to provide your feedback on this survey, on behalf of all of our members. If you have any other questions please email feedback@casa.gov.au

Thanks for taking a moment to support your aviation community at this difficult time.

Shane Carmody

Chief Executive Officer and Director of Aviation Safety

And some reply posts:

aroa

what a sick joke !! Right now, FFS with the covid catastrophe and GA down on its knees, He really is in a Furzer St fairyland.


All I can say the Fast Horses Consultants wont revive a dead nag. CAsA like the Cup injury,,,should be put down.

FAA regs . New agency with a MInister AND serious oversight. With nothing less. Kiss GA goodye

ps read the survey have a laugh at some of/all of the questions or have a bucket handy

---

PinkusDickus

I looked at the calendar to be absolutely certain it wasn't April 1st.


Carmody may as well put his head in the stocks, provide endless boxes of eggs and tomatoes, and invite all GA pilots along.

---

Office Update

This is an attempt to deflect attention away from the Glen Buckleyissue.


Carmody needs to assure the Senate and others that he is doing such a great job and is well loved by the Industry. If you have ever met the slimy scumbag you will observe at first glance he is dishonest, smirks, intolerant of anyone of lesser importance. He will never sit at the "cool kids table"

---

Lead Balloon

I can’t find a reference to this survey on CASA’s website.

---

aroa

So there you have it. A brief consensus.


Smirky Carmody is a big departing zero. And the CAsA he leaves behind scores a big zero as well.

One day out in this hot wx, I could smell the dead nag;s carcass as soon as it came out the gate..

Only Fast Horses Consulting wins this weeks financial prize. I;ll go 20 to 1 theyve made a bundle for SFA'
Not only a sick joke but a waste of taxpayers money as well.

With CAsA...always trying to polish the turd, ...wasit ever thus.

---

thunderbird five

You aint seen NUTHIN.

Senator: CASA culture is against flying.

Carmody: "I reject your version of reality, and substitute my own."
Senator: Jesus.. you need to get out more buddy.

---

josephfeatherweight

I never got this link to the survey by any of my email addresses (which usually receive emails from CASA) - is this legit?

---

Lead Balloon

I think the survey is legitimate but I don’t think us nobodies were supposed to get any invite to respond.

Next from AOPA Oz via Facebook:

CASA SURVEY: MEASURING OUR PERFORMANCE


CASA SURVEY: MEASURING OUR PERFORMANCE
AVIATION COMMUNITY SURVEY

Use the following link to participate in this survey:

https://fasterhorses.au1.qualtrics.com/.../SV...

SHARE THIS POST WITH ALL YOUR AVIATION FRIENDS - ENCOURAGE THEM TO MAKE A SUBMISSION!

Hmm...UFB! 

MTF...P2 

[Peetwo]

St Commode's last 'UP YOURS' to the IOS?? 

Putting this post here because if the good Senators ever wanted a better example of the totally corrupt, self-serving, morally moribund culture that exists within the CASA executive management and Board you can't go past the following -   

Via the UP: 

 CASA CEO - Carmody - request your support via this survey

---

Following is a request from CASA's CEO and Director of Aviation Safety Shane Carmody:

We're conducting a short survey of the aviation community to see how we're performing.

Your members' feedback will help us identify whether we've improved since our last survey two years ago, and where we still have work to do. It will focus our efforts on the things most important to our clients.

Please lend your support by encouraging your members to participate.

If you like, you could simply forward the following to your members.

CASA is conducting a 10-minute online survey of the aviation community to see how we're performing.

The survey is being conducted by an independent company, Faster Horses Consulting, so you can be perfectly frank in sharing your views. Your feedback will never be connected to you. Only de-identified aggregate survey results will be published (see the previous results on our website, for example).

Start the survey...

https://fasterhorses.au1.qualtrics.com/j...dium=Email

We strongly encourage you to provide your feedback on this survey, on behalf of all of our members. If you have any other questions please email feedback@casa.gov.au

Thanks for taking a moment to support your aviation community at this difficult time.

Shane Carmody

Chief Executive Officer and Director of Aviation Safety

And some reply posts:

aroa

what a sick joke !! Right now, FFS with the covid catastrophe and GA down on its knees, He really is in a Furzer St fairyland.


All I can say the Fast Horses Consultants wont revive a dead nag. CAsA like the Cup injury,,,should be put down.

FAA regs . New agency with a MInister AND serious oversight. With nothing less. Kiss GA goodye

ps read the survey have a laugh at some of/all of the questions or have a bucket handy

---

PinkusDickus

I looked at the calendar to be absolutely certain it wasn't April 1st.


Carmody may as well put his head in the stocks, provide endless boxes of eggs and tomatoes, and invite all GA pilots along.

---

Office Update

This is an attempt to deflect attention away from the Glen Buckleyissue.


Carmody needs to assure the Senate and others that he is doing such a great job and is well loved by the Industry. If you have ever met the slimy scumbag you will observe at first glance he is dishonest, smirks, intolerant of anyone of lesser importance. He will never sit at the "cool kids table"

---

Lead Balloon

I can’t find a reference to this survey on CASA’s website.

---

aroa

So there you have it. A brief consensus.


Smirky Carmody is a big departing zero. And the CAsA he leaves behind scores a big zero as well.

One day out in this hot wx, I could smell the dead nag;s carcass as soon as it came out the gate..

Only Fast Horses Consulting wins this weeks financial prize. I;ll go 20 to 1 theyve made a bundle for SFA'
Not only a sick joke but a waste of taxpayers money as well.

With CAsA...always trying to polish the turd, ...wasit ever thus.

---

thunderbird five

You aint seen NUTHIN.

Senator: CASA culture is against flying.

Carmody: "I reject your version of reality, and substitute my own."
Senator: Jesus.. you need to get out more buddy.

---

josephfeatherweight

I never got this link to the survey by any of my email addresses (which usually receive emails from CASA) - is this legit?

---

Lead Balloon

I think the survey is legitimate but I don’t think us nobodies were supposed to get any invite to respond.

Next from AOPA Oz via Facebook:

CASA SURVEY: MEASURING OUR PERFORMANCE


CASA SURVEY: MEASURING OUR PERFORMANCE
AVIATION COMMUNITY SURVEY

Use the following link to participate in this survey:

https://fasterhorses.au1.qualtrics.com/.../SV...

SHARE THIS POST WITH ALL YOUR AVIATION FRIENDS - ENCOURAGE THEM TO MAKE A SUBMISSION!

Hmm...UFB! 

MTF...P2 

[P7_TOM]

Fast – Horses.

In primus; most dictionaries cite 'fast' as firmly fixed; or, tightly shut; or, adhering firmly. 'Not easily freed' is another – etc. Then (at #3) the characterised definition of 'quick motion' - a 'fast horse' etc. What a confusing bagatelle the name of this very  expensive, Canberra based 'survey' crew is. A quick ASIC check and a little more money spent reveals all. But I'll say no more; not just yet.

Horses – now there's a family collective interest. Yet, if one takes the notion that 'fast'  means firmly fixed; then the notion of a 'fixed' horse trying to 'go fast' becomes risible. It is a play on words to fool those to whom the English language is a slippery tongue. So it is, to those who truly understand it, the quip, the pun, the slightly misleading use of a word which implies much without actually the 'much' being stated.

How many of the worlds greatest jokes rely heavily on the clever use of one word? Nearly every one of 'em. How many heavy duty court battles have revolved and been resolved on the clever – academic – use of a 'a word'.

M'Lord's, Ladies and Gentle men – I only ask one thing – please read, very carefully each and every word the 'independent' (fast horses) questionnaire presents and then, think carefully about how those words may be 'parlayed' and construed into another meaning. Take any line – from any poem, religious dogma or political theory then 'translate' or manipulate it into supporting what 'you' may believe it truly means. It is easily done; and, today's little game-saver is no exception.

Master Morgan wants you all to fall into the trap set, to support a flawed agenda. . Beware!  - 'You' were not invited to participate: not kissed on the arse by the demi gods. QED, private opinion has been sought – not yours.  It would (IMO) - be foolhardy to complete and return a response – this is a 'private' survey – copyright out the ying-yang.

If you must bark – then ask the right questions – in the right place - the Senate inquiry perhaps. i.e. why has it only been released to 'certain' groups? And 'why'?.  Better yet - leave the stinking thing alone – do not allow anger to cloud logical thought. The very, very best thing Boofhead Morgan could do is to advise everyone to boycott the bloody thing Loud and long. Isolate those beloved of the CASA regime, let's see 'em, standing alone, in full view.– Leave this expensive placebo laying where it lands, like a pile of reeking dog-pooh – which, in essence, is exactly what it is. Boycott it – and bark your fury that it was 'so' selective. The 'Pollies' can't handle the truth and CASA is the last outfit on the planet to let 'em have it – right between their purblind eyes.

There – said enough – thirsty now, I shall retire to my chair, light a cigar and contemplate just how desperate Morgan is to be a 'big noise' while placing all and sundry at risk. Say no more – Ale and quiet rule – until the match begins.

[Peetwo]

St Commode shuts down survey because of over participation - go figure??

Via Oz Flying:
 

CASA suspends Survey claiming AOPA Interference
13 November 2020
Comments 0 Comments


CASA today suspended their 2020 customer satisfaction survey after AOPA Australia posted a direct link to the survey company last week.


CASA sent a one-time link to 6600 participants only, but AOPA Australia last week provided the aviation industry with a direct link to survey company Faster Horses that would allow anyone in the industry to provide input.

According to CASA CEO and Director of Aviation Safety Shane Carmody, AOPA's action compromised the survey by allowing more than the selected 6600 to participate.

“One aviation association has been promoting a manipulated link to the online survey effectively destroying the sampling methodology behind the research,” he said.

“Reluctantly we have been forced to put the survey on hold because we can no longer be confident the survey will accurately and fairly represent the views of all sectors of the aviation community.

“I apologise to anyone who has already legitimately completed the survey for the disruption to the process and can assure them their views will still be heard.”

Accordiing to CASA, the suspension was done on the advice of Faster Horses.

In posting the link, AOPA CEO Ben Morgan accused CASA of deliberately selecting a narrow band of participants to get the results they wanted, and that in posting the direct link, AOPA sought to enable anyone to give their views.

"CASA [has] clearly only sent this survey to a very narrow band of recipients ... I have some very strong views on why CASA would be looking to block a broader participation in this survey, mainly because they just don't want to hear what many people in this industry have got to say; a case of seeking to survey for answers that they want, not answers that they need."

AOPA made it clear that the link they posted was provided by neither the survey company nor CASA, but enabled people outside the selected 6600 to participate as well.

Morgan told Australian Flying that it was not AOPA's intent to stop the survey and slammed CASA for what it says is further proof that CASA is shying away from genuine feedback.

"CASA actions [in suspending the survey] confirm the long-held view of the industry, which is that CASA does not genuinely want to hear genuine feedback. I think for them to have suspended the survey just confirms that position.

"I think its very sad that CASA is incapable of accepting that the views of the industry differ greatly from their own, and if they want to exist in an echo chamber, I believe we're going to see just more of the same from CASA.

"They have to start recognising that the only way they will address their problems is to start listening to the feedback of the industry and stop discrediting the feeback of the industry, and allowing that feedback to guide them."

Morgan also stated that AOPA's action in distributing the link was not intended to have the survey stopped, and that he felt CASA should still proceed.

"There is absolutely no reason as to why that survey cannot go ahead. CASA put the survey out stating they wanted open and frank feedback from those that interact with CASA. I know for a fact that we've got people who have been interacting with CASA AVMED for the past six, 12 or 18 months that have incredible experience dealing with CASA.

"They're wanting to provide their feedback. You've got people who have dealt with all manner of activities inside of CASA who want to provide their feedback. This is an industry that wants to help CASA solve its problems, and yet again here we have another example of CASA playing games.

"This was a political charm offensive launched by CASA."

The last CASA satisfaction survey was done in 2018 by Colmar Brunton. AOPA Australia slammed the survey and subsequent report, calling it biased because it did not include AOPA Australia, AMROBA or the SAAA in the sampling.

CASA says the methodology used for the 2020 survey was chosen so that it could be compared with the 2018 outcomes.

CASA is now seeking further advice from Faster Horses.

And the follow up from AOPA Oz CEO Ben Morgan:

AOPA Australia

CASA AVIATION COMMUNITY SURVEY SUSPENDED!

It has been reported today that the Civil Aviation Safety Authority has suspended their 'Aviation Community' survey, following a surge in submissions from across the aviation industry, following a call from AOPA Australia for industry to participate.

Touted by CASA as an independent survey that sought ‘frank’ views and opinions from the ‘aviation community’, the now suspended survey appears to confirm that CASA are only interested in the answers they want, not those they need.

See report from AOPA Australia last week: https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=v...hXQQ%3D%3D

AOPA Australia CEO, Mr Benjamin Morgan, provides comment.

&/or for comments etc. - via FB: https://fb.watch/1Kj46gwSX-/

MTF...P2