[P7_TOM]

There are two ends to a plank...

Much as I admire the McKenzie 'sang froid'; respect the logic and calm, reasoned argument which I can, and do, fully support – I wonder. Only small worries around the 'bigger' picture, hardly worth the mention – but.

I hasten to add that if we had a man of the McKenzie calibre in a position of power within CASA, I would not, not for a moment be concerned – Alas.,...

So, in order of magnitude:-

1 Professional pilots mostly belong to one of the 'major' union or associations and are almost guaranteed 'support' from not only the company, but also their 'federation'. Members of AOPA – those of the private sector do not have that luxury – in fact as Clinton did, they are essentially on their own hook and bank book. AOPA cannot possibly provide much more than moral support, letters written and not much else in the way of fiscal or legal backup, not when push comes to shove. Clinton spent a fair old whack of his hard earned (bless) and has had enough backbone to 'tell the tale'. For which I, for one, am grateful. Bravo Sir..

2 Let's say Fred Bloggs hits the same brick walls. Fred has the usual encumbrances, mortgage etc. and only flies for 'private' reasons, when it can be afforded. No harm in that, many do exactly that – save up and the go away for a tour or a visit. Suddenly; Fred has a 'medical' complication – no CASA medical – not without a brawl which he may or may not win. Either way he is down the costs. So the coin he must flip is a loaded one – abandon all hope of a CASA medical – or; spend the dollars on a high risk AAAT hearing and pay-back for winning; or, simply transfer to the RAOz system. Given the 'Missus' don't really care for 'flying' and the AAAT lottery is an uncertain bet – will Fred follow the McKenzie route; or, simply let the CASA PPL slide away? No brain-er really.

That is the other end of the AOPA plank. What AOPA is showing through the never ending broadcast of 'serious' medical issues and scary, expensive AAAT battles is actively promoting the RAOz case. If I flew, casually, for recreational purposes and heard about 'the potential' drama – well.

Solutions, parity and equity are needed – not horror stories. For 'private' operations the same medical standards should be applied. As it stands now, the only reason to hold a CASA PPL is if there is an intention to progress to a higher grade. This is wrong. OK, if you have to put a PPL through the medical wringer before a CPL etc, so be it – but FCOL what can it matter for those with no intention of progressing to a professional licence. Nothing is the answer – nothing whatsoever. RAOz -  QED.

Time AOPA stopped the 'negative' diatribe and developed a pathway, supported by expert advice toward a 'one standard' medical for those who fly for 'fun'. That is a cause I could support. While I'm 'at it' - this endless advertising for 'membership' has a very real negative impact – a simple change of wording would remove the used car salesman pitch for your dollars – what about - “Need support? Call AOPA”.

Yes, well I've wasted time and wind on other matters, this one is no different. The only real difference is my enthusiasm to support it. Borderline now....