I also am a full scale pilot, maybe not nearly as many years as some, but a pilot nonetheless. The term "pilot" is appropriate when used with respect to models. A pilot is any one or thing that guides someone or something else. You can pilot a ship, drill a pilot hole, start a pilot project etc... To be upset with the term being used on individuals that "operate" toys is just a little elitist. Calling R/C'ers pilots in no way detracts from the hard work and money you put in to getting a license to fly full scale aircraft
cfircav8r
I understand what your saying.
You said, and I quote.
To be upset with the term being used on individuals that "operate" toys is just a little elitist.
Are you assuming something here? It appears so. "Upset." Where does this come from? Are you upset?
We're talking about a Pilot and an operator of a radio controled model. Not two individual pilots flying R/C models. Toys? Why do you think these models are toys? I certainly don't.
The investigators will not talk about or refer to two pilots. One is an operator the other is a pilot. This has to be defined and made clear. early on in fact. As seen through the eyes of experienced investigators. Let's hope at least one is a modeler.
No disrespect is intended by me.
Hey! I'm an R/C pilot. I'm a CL pilot also. Not a good one, but none the less a pilot. Only 51 years of modeling, mostly scratch building. Yea, I have ARF's and they are great fun, but my background was building and it still is. I would rather build than fly. Do you build?
This incident is very serious and should not to be taken lightly. We'll have to see where the outcome goes?
On a light note. Before anyone can receive their AMA card, it should be required, that the individual pass a test. Part of that test requirement should be the complete scratch building and flying of a model airplane.
Agree or disagree?