Here is what I hear from some EC members. There is some sympathy for the jet crowd. Some of the jets that are being flown are right at the weight limit with minimal fuel and flying in what is close to a dangerous state. The concern is that those same planes, if allowed to be loaded with fuel could carry as much as 3 gallons and come in at over 70 pounds. There is virtually zero support for that type of weight. Somewhere closer to 55 pounds is possible, maybe, kinda, sorta. It is for the jet flyers, probably JPO to come up with safe solutions.

The EC is looking for additional ways to make these planes safe for people to be around. The discussion here is being watched. Legitimate, constructive ideas presented here are seen.

There appears to very little sympathy for the prop driven Giants when it comes to the weight limit. The 100 pound waiver program is there for them.

The tiered insurance was floated out by DB. As before, it has little support on the EC.

The rest of this is my personal feelings, which have some minor support on the EC. I think the AMA should have a certification program for pilots. One level should be for the newbie. One level at something around 20-25 pounds and finally one for jets. There should be a test of ability. Not something subjective, something concrete that is pass or fail in front of those who may certify. If you want to throw in a written test, fine. My own prejudices are based on the fact that we do have some members who are not capable of safe operation of larger or faster planes. I think we have all seen, at one time or another, a new pilot who should not be flying solo, or a bigger plane or a jet. When it comes to any of these certifications, I don't care if it takes the pilot 2 days, 5 years or he never learns. A buddy box seems to be the only way to insure training at any level in a truly safe manner. The pilot must pass or stay at the level he is at.

We have a club member who has been flying for about 18 months now. He is incapable of assembling anything he flies and pays others to do so. His first plane was a 60 sized trainer. He crashed it soloing too soon. His second plane was a 33% Sukhoi. It lasted 2 or three flights. He has since gone through a 33% Aeroworks Edge and several other large models, and numerous smaller ones. He has another being built for him. He went though at least $20,000 worth of planes in his first year. The last time I saw him, he was flying the large Rascal, with a 1.60 on it. His third Rascal. He had just been to a jet rally and was hot for a jet. I am not sure whether he has ordered one or not. Thank God for the waiver process. Now.. admittedly, he is not typical, but, guys like him do exist and this story is real. Worse yet, everyone loves him... as long as he is not in the air. Actually, he is a competent pilot with the Rascal at this point.

JR