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32 • TWIN & TURBINE February 2017
re-populate the mainline with experienced pilots. As a stop- gap measure, managers are currently trying to squeeze more time and money out of the soon-retiring generation of pilots. Often in violation of negotiated working agreements (union contracts) designed to assure adequate rest and quality of life (days off). There are over-the-road truckers in their 70s and 80s. Why not pilots? A news report pointed to the obvious reason: an increase in accidents in this age group of truckers. That’s the latest rumor at work: age 67 retirement. But it’s only a rumor. I think the industry recognizes that the safe, low-hanging fruit in that cost-saving bucket has already been plucked. Age 65 will remain the end of that column in their miserly ledger. I say that from the perspective of one of the low-hangers already plucked. Soon, the only source of new airline pilots will be from GA.
Decades of flying, research and access to industry movers and shakers puts those favorite writers from above at an altitude in which they have a good view of our issues. But (no pun intended) opinions are like, well, you know, and everyone has one. So here is mine: If I were looking to become an airline pilot, I’d be happy to see the timing that is playing out in GA and Part 121 these days. They say the cyclic nature of the airline business is ending and we are headed toward a future of stability. The airlines are hiring. Salaries are headed up. And in GA, airframes, powerplants and avionics are more reliable and functional than at any other time. The changes to Part 23 will be helpful in managing costs and increased use of simulators in GA is due. But we need to increase our numbers.
The best thing you can do is the right thing;
the next best thing you can do is the wrong thing; the worst thing you can do is nothing.
Theodore Roosevelt
It’s nice to sit in front of a crackling fireplace, searching for an irresistible airplane. But the hangar is nice, too. If you’re a student pilot, now is the time to keep at it. More use of sims and the pilot medical reforms will lower both the cost and apprehension of entering the ranks of GA. If you are non- current, go flying and take an instructor along; they don’t bite. If you’re an owner, your baby in the hangar misses you. Keep up with events and rumors through periodicals and your favorite writers. Like a Walter Cronkite news broadcast, some must be read every time regardless of the length of the grass, depth of snow or the half-life of Percocet.
Andthat’sthewayitis. T&T •
Kevin Dingman has been flying for over 40 years. He’s an ATP typed in the B737 and DC9 with 22,000 hours. A retired Air Force Major, he flew the F-16 then per- formed as a USAF Civil Air Patrol Liaison Officer. He flies volunteer missions for the Christian organization Wings of Mercy, is employed by a major airline, and owns and operates a Beechcraft Duke. Contact Kevin at Dinger10d @gmail.com