(b)
the economic and employment advantages;
(c)
access from the main population and employment centres in the City and County and neighbouring areas;
(d)
the existence of suitably located alternative flying facilities.
Such diverse policies are also found at the local level, making decision-making something of a lottery. GA is not fully understood, or appreciated, by the majority of local planning authorities so the ongoing ‘education’ exercise being undertaken by GAAC is vital.
Pilots: Supply and Demand
Pilot training is perhaps the most important aspect of the entire aviation industry. More than 130 flying training schools and clubs are operating in Britain, providing more than 2500 pilots each year. Many of these learn to fly for personal pleasure – and why not?
– but large numbers subsequently decide to become professional pilots. They fly in their own time and at their own expense, therefore effectively subsidising the air transport industry – and helping to cut the cost of air travel for all. In 1988, 43% of all pilots entering the profession came via the club and private flying movement. Currently the figure is in the region of 60%, but before preparing this booklet the GAAC asked several UK airline operators for their views on likely pilot availability in the years ahead.
One responded by saying that the industry must rely on 70% – 80% of new pilots coming from the GA field; another has written ‘we certainly agree that the aviation industry is increasingly likely to be dependent on General Aviation as a pilot provider.’
Also, several specialist professional pilot training schools are in operation, attracting trainees from every part of the world and earning valuable foreign currencies for Britain.
It is widely known that commercial air transport activity is growing at 5-6% per annum, so there will be an increased demand for new pilots. Perhaps you will be one of those passengers? If so, you need GA.
The national need for pilot training is acknowledged by Central Government in PPG 13 – Transport. This collective message should serve as a dire warning to all – especially to airport and airspace providers and local planning authorities – that any constraint on GA operations will produce disastrous results, not only for the whole aviation industry, but far beyond.
So what does the future hold?
Technology never stands still and this is equally true in the world of General Aviation. In the future, aeroplanes will become quieter and more environmentally friendly.
Already, mufflers reducing exhaust noises are becoming available, subject to approval by the Authorities. Propeller design is becoming more sophisticated, further reducing noise. New engine technology is here, ready for approval by the Authorities, which will reduce propeller tip speed noise through reduction gearing. There are even proposals for aviation fuel made from vegetable matter.
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