And, the EVEN BIGGER PICTURE? We’re ignoring the existing USHPA pilot Mentoring Program to install an untested method that removes the existing requirement for an experienced pilot’s presence when an inexperienced pilot launches! Many, or all, experienced Mtn pilots have witnessed rapidly changing, subtle conditions at our mountain launch sites that would otherwise be overlooked or ignored by an inexperienced pilot. Can’t see how removing experience from a slot launch makes any sense.mingram wrote:The big picture change is that we're exchanging the word Observer with Sponsor.
Why was this new system put in place when a tested/accepted Mentor program already exists? Cause, two of the newly appointed “sponsors” are not worthy of being Observers (according to recent USHPA directives) and, as such, it’s unlikely that an impartial USHPA Examiner would consider them worthy of becoming Mentors.
An accurate assessment of the abilities, experience and community responsibilities of a candidate Mentor can only be achieved by an impartial Examiner. An “in house” club BOD appointment lacks objectivity.
I have to ask - was what happened last night really an effort to improve the safety of our new pilots or just a “slap in the USHPA face” for pulling observer ratings?
Wish I was there but would have spread more than just my thoughts, including the flu.
Ward