The International Cessna^® 170 Association

Bruce Fenstermacher wrote:

voorheesh wrote:I am sorry if my employment is a source of controversy in this organization and I hope we can continue communicating without making a big deal of it.

It is not a controversy with me nor is it a big deal.

If I ever worked for the FAA or another government agency I'd have to feel the same as you and I wouldn't be ashamed of my work either. I've actually considered applying to the FAA because there is a lack of experience in the FAA in my field of flying helicopters. At least this is what I see and it's what has helped lead my prospective to a half empty glass attitude. Sometimes I wonder if some of the folks I've run into, who should now better, really believe that helicopters beat the air into submission.

Harlow, ...I consider your employment situation a fantastic CONTRIBUTION and resource to our group. I know I'm not the only one present who is GLAD you are in our group!

Bruce,... I hate to admit it but... two of the BEST FAA Inspectors here at my workplace... are former helicopter pilots. They have the knowlege, experience, and insight to recognize that aviators have difficult and complex jobs...and that there are usually several ways to solve most operational problems and still meet "the rule". (And, ...in addition... they both formerly flew GREEN helicopters! (U.S. Army "Slicks")

I have a freind that also works for the FAA and I do remind him that he now knows both sides of the fence and to rmember where and how he got started. All agencies need practical people for common sense to allow fair judgements.

John Hess

Thanks guys

I'm personally grateful to the FAAST team members. This is one of the FAA's best efforts toward GA safety. In my area they've been holding Wings seminars for CFIs for the last few years, and I find the opportunity to get together with other CFIs and discuss safety issues very valuable. Collectively these folks know an awful lot about flying, and they're eager to give their best in the interest of safety. Thanks, Harlow!