PRESIDENT’S REPORT - August 1, 2010

Adam White

Recently I had the honor of having lunch with several of the past presidents of our association.  It was great to hear their stories and learn more of our history.  From the handful of members in the 50’s to how the first airplane was raffled to the details of hiring our first staff member.  It was encouraging to hear how through the years our mission has been the same, promoting general aviation.  However it was a little disturbing to hear that we are still fighting some of the same issues.  It is not because we have been ineffective at dealing with them but because they keep coming from so many directions.

I am encouraged that so many of these issues we, as an association, have been able to work closely with those that are in positions to remove the obstacles.  While in Anchorage for the Past Presidents cookout I was able to meet with several folks within the FAA.  It was a great time of open discussion with no agenda.  So many times when we meet it is in a structured environment and there is little room or time for things that are not on an agenda.  They were able to brief Dee and me on several areas that they think we can help them get the word out and we were able to share several concerns that you our members have shared with us.  It is these relationships that have been fostered over many years that allow us to be so effective in “promoting general aviation in Alaska”.  Your membership not only gives us more creditability but reinforces the desire of the Board of Directors that The Alaska Airmen’s Association be the voice of general aviation in Alaska.

On a completely unrelated topic; I mentioned this last year but unfortunately I think we all need to hear it again.  It’s a shame that most people put more effort into getting their gear ready to go on a hunting trip than getting themselves and their airplane ready for the flying that is necessary.  Folks talk about and plan for months about what gear and food they will take to the hunting camp.  Yet many of us will wait until we get in the overloaded airplane to think if we are proficient for the flight we are about to make.  It’s inexcusable that for some the trip to and from the hunting camp is far more dangerous than any other activity of the year.  We have lost too many of our peers to accidents that could have been prevented.

I was once told that “it’s better to be a day or two late than to be many years too early”.  I constantly remind myself of that advice.  Don’t push the weather, don’t over-load the airplane, and don’t attempt piloting that might be above your skill level; in doing so you risk dying many years too soon.  Other things to remember, current doesn’t mean proficient and legal doesn’t always mean safe!  Let’s all do our part in making this hunting season a zero kill year for the human side of the equation.

Be safe,

Adam White, President