AOPA Legislative Action Efforts Pay Off; Senate, House Committees Say 'No User Fees'
Both Senate and House appropriations committees have approved record budgets for the FAA in 1999, and did so without user fees. Also rejected was the administration proposal to split the FAA in two by creating a new performance based organization (PBO).
"Our efforts really paid off," said AOPA Legislative Action President Phil Boyer. "These key committees have demonstrated once again that Congress can provide adequate funds for the FAA using the existing aviation excise tax system." The House Appropriations Committee approved $9.5 billion, and the Senate Appropriations Committee $9.9 billion, for the FAA in fiscal year 1999. Later this fall, a House-Senate conference committee will work out the differences between the two appropriations bills.
"Both bills specifically prohibit the FAA from planning or implementing any new user fees," said Boyer. "And both provide more funds specifically for GA airports." The bills also increase airport improvement budgets and include specific loran funding.
A major difference between the two bills is the length of time for which FAA programs would be extended. AOPA prefers the one-year House bill because that would permit Congress to make changes next year to the budget treatment of the aviation trust fund, potentially unlocking that fund's growing $9 billion surplus.
AOPA And Aviation Industry Say No! To FAA Ticket Program
During a two-hour meeting July 21 at FAA headquarters, AOPA and the rest of the aviation industry told FAA Administrator Jane Garvey that the FAA "ticket program" is unacceptable.
Speaker after speaker agreed that the program could damage the FAA's relations with the flying community and set back FAA-industry safety partnerships.
Throughout the meeting, FAA officials insisted a ticket would not have a significant impact on the recipient, but AOPA disagreed. "An administrative action in an airman's or mechanic's file for two years does have an impact," said Dennis Roberts, AOPA vice president for government and technical affairs. "It could very easily ruin a career."
Said a major airline representative, "The badges are out again. Are you trying to deal with safety or fill in the boxes?"
Loran Survival Likely; AOPA Applauds
High-ranking DOT managers have decided that the loran navigation system should continue beyond the year 2000, supporting a longstanding AOPA position.
"More than 80,000 general aviation aircraft are equipped with loran receivers," said AOPA President Phil Boyer. "It makes all the sense in the world to keep loran operating."
While no new termination date was set, AOPA has learned that the Coast Guard is planning to operate loran through 2008, although the decision still requires DOT approval. DOT had previously planned on shutting down loran on December 31, 2000, despite almost universal opposition from users.
Boyer noted that a draft study prepared for DOT showed it would cost some $764 million to terminate loran in 2000, while continued operation for 15 years would cost about $473 million. Most of the shutdown cost would fall on loran users who would have to buy new navigation equipment.
CAP Abandons Operation Drop-In; AOPA Sees Opportunity for 'Fresh Start'
AOPA has praised the Civil Air Patrol's July 14 decision to stand down from its involvement in Operation Drop-In, the antidrug program to survey airport ramps and record N-numbers for a national database of suspect smuggling aircraft.
"Operation Drop-In had the potential to destroy CAP's traditional place in the aviation community," said AOPA President Phil Boyer. "This episode reminds CAP, and all of us, that the Civil Air Patrol is part of general aviation, as well as auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force."
The association had encouraged CAP to drop the program after polling a sample of AOPA members on the issue. A slight majority of AOPA members did not oppose ramp surveys if necessary in the fight against drugs, but a larger majority believed that law enforcement agencies, not CAP, should perform such functions.
Throughout the controversy, AOPA maintained its ongoing strong support for CAP. "I fully expect that the general aviation community will give CAP credit for a courageous and just decision — one which indicates CAP recognizes that the support of the flying public is important to their success," said Boyer. "This decision signals the chance for a fresh relationship between CAP and the general aviation community."
FAA OKs GPS for ADF/DME Fixes
Responding to a 1995 AOPA request, the FAA has approved use of IFR-certified GPS receivers in place of ADF and DME equipment on many instrument approaches.
Under this new approval, information from an IFR-certified GPS receiver can be used in place of DME readouts and/or NDB bearing information in all IFR operations except NDB approaches where no GPS overlay approach exists for that procedure.
Approved IFR GPS instrument approach operations include:
- Locating DME fixes and Locator Outer Markers (LOMs)
- Flying DME arcs
- Determining NDB cross-bearing fixes
- Navigating to/from and holding over NDBs
No charting changes are required to use GPS as a DME/ADF replacement, but pilots should be aware that new waypoints must be added to the GPS database to substitute GPS for DME on some approaches.
AOPA was the pioneer advocate of GPS for civilian aviation beginning back in the 1980s. Its landmark 1990 report to Congress, "The Future is Now," started a policy debate leading to the adoption of the Department of Defense-originated system for civilian air navigation.
AOPA Represents GA'S Interests at Top Level of Important New Task Force
AOPA has been appointed as the only GA organization on the steering committee of the FAA's new Task Force on Certification (TF4). It sounds deadly dull, but TF4 recommendations will help to determine what new avionics you will need and how soon you'll need them, how much they will cost, and when they will be available.
"This is about the cost of flying and GA's continued access to all of the national airspace system," said AOPA President Phil Boyer, who will personally represent GA on the steering committee. "That's why AOPA fought to be included at the top level on this task force."
Serving on the TF4 Working Group 3, which will review certification standards, will be AOPA Vice President for Government and Technical Affairs Dennis Roberts. Roberts said that the task force will examine the significance of differences between costly FAA-certified avionics and less expensive non-TSO'd equipment, such as handheld GPS receivers. He said that another working group mandate will address GA's access to airspace, adding "we won't allow the FAA to force GA pilots to buy expensive new equipment solely as the price of admission to public airspace."
The Certification Task Force is expected to deliver its recommendations to FAA Administrator Garvey in late December.
City Tries to Regulate Flight Operations, But AOPA Says, 'Back Off!'
AOPA is known for fighting major battles. Not so well known is that AOPA sometimes takes on smaller skirmishes that could set a precedent, even if only a few pilots are affected. Consider Las Cruces, New Mexico, where the city is trying to police how pilots fly.
On June 1, the city passed an ordinance making it illegal to land or take off at Las Cruces' nontowered airport without an operable radio. According to city fathers, pilots must radio their progress "for the duration of time they are in the instrument and/or VFR traffic pattern." The ordinance also says that pilots must fly the "traffic pattern procedures recommended by the current issue of the FAA's Aeronautical Information Manual."
"City cops have no business writing tickets for an allegedly 'illegal' traffic pattern or failure to use the radio," said AOPA Vice President for Regional Affairs Bill Dunn. In a strongly worded letter to Las Cruces Mayor Ruben Smith, he pointed out that federal law gives sole authority over regulation of aircraft operation, including radio use, to the FAA.
The Air Safety Foundation is distributing to local pilots copies of its "Operations at Nontowered Airports" safety advisor.
AOPA-LA Supports Veteran Legislation
AOPA Legislative Action is supporting a House bill that would allow some veterans to reclaim tax deductions for flight training expenses disallowed by the IRS.
H.R.3942, introduced by Rep. Ellen Tauscher (D-Calif.), would allow a one-time opportunity for veterans to file for a refund if the deductions had expired or were settled unfavorably.
Action in the States
Alaska. Juneau: A proposal to decommission the Pederson Hill flashing beacon is being opposed by the Alaskan Aviation Safety Foundation and AOPA. Ninilchick: Threatened closure of the Ninilchick airstrip has been averted. AOPA helped to coordinate efforts by local pilots and state agencies.
California. Auburn: AOPA is advising local pilotson an FAA Part 16 revenue diversion complaint at the Auburn Airport. Orange County: Delays at John Wayne Airport will occur this fall with the scheduled repaving of Runway 19L; more information will be available on the AOPA Web site. Sacramento: Meetings between pilots, cargo operators, and county officials continue over a planned housing development near Mather Airport. AOPA has asked officials to deny the housing development.
Colorado. Granby: A Pan Am WeatherMation IV system is undergoing a one-year evaluation by both local and transient pilots.
Delaware. Dover: County zoning authorities have denied a variance for a new home that would have obstructed an approach at the Jenkins Airport just south of Dover. AOPA provided the airport owner with aviation precedents and asked the state to enforce existing zoning laws to protect airports.
Florida. Palm Beach: Airport improvements will include runway extensions at Palm Beach International, runway overlays at Pahokee and Lantana, and 62 new T-hangars at North Palm Beach County. A GPS approach is planned for PBI. Pompano Beach: ASN Volunteer Bill Bahlke reports the election of two pro-airport city council members. Also, a major training school, American Flyers, has opened a facility at Pompano Beach Airport. Tamiami: Efforts to keep open the U.S. Customs office at Tamiami Airport appear doomed. Tampa: AOPA provided help in establishing safe traffic patterns at Vandenberg Airport.
Georgia. Macon: A threat to close Herbert Smart Airport has eased slightly, with major Macon employers GEICO, Brown and Williamson, and YKK Industries throwing their support behind the airport. AOPA is advising local pilots and officials.
Massachusetts. A federal court, citing discrimination, has ruled in favor of the Atlantic Fish Spotters Association. Last year the National Marine Fisheries Service banned aerial spotting of Atlantic bluefin tuna, most used by harpooners. The ban had been promoted by vendors selling equipment to sport fishermen.
North Carolina. Chapel Hill: AOPA is supporting the new Airport Advisory Committee appointments for Horace Williams Airport, but asked that the 9 p.m. curfew for non-UNC flights be reviewed.
Oregon. Albany: Historic Albany Airport has been placed on the National Register of Historic Places. The move, encouraged by AOPA, will help to preserve the endangered airport. A new aviation museum is also planned for the field. Ashland: City efforts to sell airport property are being opposed by local pilots and AOPA.
Tennessee. Murfreesboro: AOPA is encouraging a newly formed Airfield Owners Association, comprised largely of AOPA members dedicated to preserving private airports.
Washington. Skagit: A proposed high-density res-idential development has threatened the Skagit Regional/Bayview Airport. AOPA is providing research and analysis to help state and local officials save the airport.
Wisconsin. Middleton: The city of Middleton has voted to acquire endangered Morey Field, ending a year-long battle by local pilots, the Wisconsin Bureau of Aeronautics, and AOPA to keep the airport from falling into the hands of developers.
AOPA Online Features New Aircraft Valuation Service by VREF
The average market value of any used aircraft is now available instantly with the electronic, interactive version of AOPA's Aircraft Valuation Service, provided by Vref, in the members-only section of AOPA Online ( www.aopa.org/members/vref/).
The AOPA valuation service by Vref is the cornerstone of a wide variety of AOPA aircraft purchasing resources for members, and users can refine the value estimates based on airframe and engine time, options, additional equipment, damage history, and other variables.
"This valuation is not designed to provide a detailed appraisal on a specific aircraft," said AOPA Senior Vice President for Products and Services Andrew Horelick. "Only an on-site inspection by a qualified appraiser can do that. But the AOPA Aircraft Valuation Service can be used as a good starting point when attempting to determine the general retail value of an airplane."
Also available on the AOPA Online site are reports on many popular aircraft, AOPA publications on co-ownership options, income tax issues, starting a flying club, and "Tips on Buying Used Aircraft."
AOPA Online's reference library can be searched for ADs and alerts, advisory circulars, regulations, and more. A comprehensive list of type clubs is available to tap into specific expertise on particular makes and models; and links to insurance and financing options are provided. An online payment calculator allows prospective buyers to compute monthly payments using current interest rates.
AOPA Online Receives 'Select Site' Award From Dow Jones
The Dow Jones Business Directory has awarded AOPA Online (www.aopa.org) a "Select Site" ranking, calling it an "exceptional value to our readers."
"AOPA Online strives to be the definitive source of GA information on the Web," said Seth Golbey, managing editor for AOPA Internet Services. "It's a tremendous honor to have an organization as prestigious as Dow Jones tell us that we have succeeded." AOPA's popular aviation Web site averages more than five million "hits" and serves more than 840,000 pages per month.
On Dow Jones' 10-point scale, a score above eight in each evaluation area indicates "exceptional performance." AOPA Online content was rated 9 for its timeliness, depth and accuracy of information. Speed, navigation, and design categories rated 8. Overall, AOPA Online ranked near the top of business Web sites.
More than 85,000 AOPA members have registered in the Members Only section, which includes free DTN weather graphics (updated hourly), file library, aviation databases, message boards, and aviation classified ads.
New, Lower Interest Rate Available on AOPA Credit Card
Both existing and new holders of AOPA credit cards issued by MBNA America Bank are now eligible for a new, low 12.99-percent fixed annual percentage rate (APR) for purchases.
"Not only is this new low rate competitive in the industry, it's a great rate for our members," said Kelly Tomlin, program director, "and use of these cards helps keep membership dues low and general aviation strong."
AOPA credit cards feature no annual fee, AOPA's 3% FBO Rebate Program, and a credit line up to $100,000 for eligible cardholders. More than 120,000 AOPA members carry the AOPA credit card.
Existing cardholders desiring the new 12.99 percent rate for the AOPA credit card should call 800/779-6832.
Mike Volk Joins Spa as New Executive Director
Mike Volk, 23, has been named executive director of the Seaplane Pilots Association. He succeeds Robert Richardson, who is retiring.
Volk's responsibilities will include coordinating policy issues and representation of seaplane pilots' interests on the local, state, and federal levels. He will also publish the bimonthly Water Flying magazine and SPA's Web site ( www.seaplanes.org).
He is a commercial pilot with instrument and single engine-seaplane ratings.
SPA is an international non-profit membership association that has grown to 6,460 members in the United States, Canada, and 42 other countries.
AOPA Adds Insurance for Experimental, Homebuilt Aircraft
The AOPA Insurance Agency has added insurance for a wide range of experimental and homebuilt aircraft at competitive rates. Underwriting had previously been limited to factory-built models.
Formed five years ago, the AOPA Insurance Agency became the world's largest GA insurance agency on May 1 with the acquisition of AON Risk Services of Wichita. The AOPA Insurance Agency represents eight different underwriting markets, all rated "A" (excellent) by A.M. Best and Company. Coverages available include insurance for owners, renters, CFIs, and unique aircraft.
For a free instant quote, call the AOPA Insurance Agency at 800/872-AOPA (800/872-2672). The AOPA Insurance Agency Web site is www.aopaia.com.
Signature Waives Handling Charges at Expo '98
Signature Flight Support has agreed to waive handling charges at its Palm Springs, California, facility for AOPA Expo '98 participants from October 23 through 25. Normal airport landing and parking fees will still apply.
"AOPA members are concerned about the growing trend towards 'handling charges' for smaller GA aircraft," said AOPA President Phil Boyer. "Signature CEO Bruce Van Allen's willingness to waive those fees for AOPA Expo participants at Palm Springs indicates Signature's desire to accommodate pilots' interest in safety and educational programs at Expo, along with their desire to view new products and obtain firsthand knowledge of the association's wide-ranging activities."
In addition, the Palm Springs Signature facility will extend its 50-cents-off weekend avgas pricing to four days for Expo participants — from Thursday, October 22 through Sunday, October 25.
This year's Expo features more than 425 indoor exhibits, 40 product demonstrations, and 70 educational seminars dealing with safety, medical, owner issues, and other aviation interests. The aircraft static display will be right outside the Palm Springs Convention Center.
For the first time, exhibit booth space is sold out a full three months prior to the show. "Even more exciting, nearly a fifth of this year's exhibitors are new to Expo," said Convention Director Ann Kilian. "Their presence will bring even more energy and excitement to AOPA Expo '98."
Complete information is available by calling 888/GO-2-Expo (888/462-3976) or on the Web site ( www.aopa.org/expo/).
AOPA AIR SAFETY FOUNDATION
$600 Nascar Tickets Top Silent Auction Items for September
Six pairs of tickets to the NAPA 500, the final race of the 1998 NASCAR Winston Cup Series, at the Atlanta Motor Speedway on November 8, are now up for bid on the ASF Silent Auction on the Web.
The tickets — valued at $600 per pair — were donated by MBNA America Bank, issuer of AOPA credit cards. Bidding on the NASCAR tickets closes September 15.
Successful bidders will receive a VIP escort to the Speedway on race day, a pre-race pit tour, and luxury seating in MBNA America's air-conditioned suite overlooking the racetrack. The suite includes a buffet and beverages, and real-time audio and video feeds of race action.
AOPA President Phil Boyer will join the successful bidders for the race event.
Other items available on the ASF Silent Auction include:
- Aviation apparel
- Aviation artwork, books, holiday cards, software, and tapes
- Avionics, tires, and aircraft accessories
- Bed-and-breakfast stays
- Collectibles
- Gift certificates
- Headsets
- Jewelry
- Training courses
Silent Auction proceeds help to support ASF's national aviation safety seminar program.
New Silent Auction items are added monthly while bidding closes on others.
The ASF Silent Auction ends on November 30.
Students Awarded Scholarships
Aviation majors in Arizona and California have won two scholarships administered jointly by the ASF and the University Aviation Association. The $1,000 Donald Burnside and McAllister Memorial scholarships, awarded annually, are based on scholastic achievement and an essay on improving GA safety.
Kara A. Kahler, 20, of Snohomish, Washington, won the Burnside scholarship. Her essay focused on specific steps FBOs can take to improve the safety of renter pilots. The scholarship honors Donald Burnside, aviation pioneer and co-founder of the Burnside-Ott Aviation Training Center in Florida.
Kahler is a senior at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Prescott, Arizona. She serves as a student ambassador in the AOPA/ERAU partnership program.
Rebecca Denise Johnson, 21, of Cameron Park, California, was awarded the McAllister scholarship. A 700-hour commercial pilot and CFI with an instrument rating, Johnson is a senior at San Jose State University. She is majoring in aviation, with minors in business and science.
Johnson's part-time job as a data researcher for NASA's ASRS program provided data for her essay, which suggested reinstatement of spin training, training on GPS units, and use of a personal standards checklist. The McAllister Memorial Scholarship was established in 1979 to honor long-time pilot trainers Eugene and Dorothy McAllister.
