2 -v- 1 (close call with a Viper)

[Bjammin]

To hold a lawyer with a PPL to the same standard as an F16 pilot diminishes the F16 pilot, and everyone else with military wings.

An idiot that violates restricted airspace or transits through an approach path of a major airport can cause as much damage and death as an F-16 pilot with an AIM-9.

Yes, there are different levels of professional aviatiors, but you have to have a certain level of responsibility to be a PIC. That level MUST include the need to be inheirently safe and have respect of our surroundings.

I have known many civilian aviators with only a PPL that have more aviation professionalism then some of my military peers.

This is somewhat of a silly argument. Does a 747 pilot have more responsibilty then a P-3 commander? Does a T-37 instructor have to be more professional then a Citation owner? We all, as pilots, have the same responsibility, the safe operation of the aircraft we sign for. That's a BIG deal.

 

[SIG600]

You guys are both right, but I think you're both wrong as well. Proffessionalism is a frame of mind, not a function of hours. Everyone behind the controls of any aircraft has to understand that, or they are doomed to failure.

Having said that however... by in large the non-flying public (and I'm sure to a large extent aviators themselves) expect more from military aviators BECAUSE of our training, and the proffesionalism and skill it requires to operate the stuff we get to fly. I'm not talking stick and rudder skills either... any monkey can "fly" an F-18.

 

[Deuce130]

Does a T-37 instructor have to be more professional then a Citation owner? quote]

Without a doubt. We'll just have to agree to disagree on this one.

 

[Bjammin]

I think the crux of the discussion is this: Joe pilot in any aircraft needs to realize that he has great responsibilities.

Does farmer Joe flying a C-150 over his farm land in Nowhere Nebraska have the same responsibilities as Joe captain flying a 777 into LAX? No, but that does not absolve him from his duty to operate his craft safely, and that includes being aware of the airspace and aircraft around him.

Some in my flying communities, both airline and military, want to abolish VFR flying all together. I'm very much against that, but VFR pilots must underatand and respect the airspace around them and act in a cautious AND professional manner in order to keep the great freedom of flight awarded them.