Mon, Mar 16, 2009
Throws Full Support Behind SAFE
Not all the stories that hit the ANN inbox are terribly
surprising. On Sunday, Aero-News received word that Rich Stowell,
2006 National Flight Instructor of the Year, has resigned as a
member of the National Association of Flight Instructors
(NAFI).
"NAFI leadership had degenerated to the point where I, like so
many others, could no longer support an organization that not only
demonstrates contempt for the concerns of rank and file members,
but also no longer provides value and service to the flight
training community," Stowell said. "I am truly saddened by this,
but given all that has transpired over the last half year, it's
time for me to move on. I now enthusiastically support the new and
member-centric Society of Aviation and Flight Educators
[SAFE]."
As ANN has reported, SAFE is the outgrowth of
the group Take Back Our NAFI that formed last October due to
mounting discontent within the ranks of the EAA-affiliated flight
instructor association. Stowell was a key proponent of the TBO-NAFI
split.
Perhaps best known as an expert in stall/spin and unusual
attitude training, Stowell notes he supported NAFI as a member and
avid contributor for nearly two decades. He periodically provided
pro bono articles for the association's magazine and volunteered on
the Member Professional Standards Committee.
Stowell also regularly participated in NAFI events and programs,
and actively promoted the organization on his website, at safety
seminars, in his books, and in articles appearing in diverse
aviation publications.
Times have changed. Stowell made note of the fact that in his
resignation message to NAFI's Secretary, he demanded -- "as a
matter of principal and recognized association practices" -- a
pro-rata refund of his membership dues in the organization.
More News
"Fly-by-wire flight, coupled with additional capability that are being integrated into ALFA, provide a great foundation for Bell to expand on its autonomous capabilities. This airc>[...]
Hold Procedure A predetermined maneuver which keeps aircraft within a specified airspace while awaiting further clearance from air traffic control. Also used during ground operatio>[...]
Aero Linx: B-21 Raider The B-21 Raider will be a dual-capable penetrating strike stealth bomber capable of delivering both conventional and nuclear munitions. The B-21 will form th>[...]
Also: Virgin Galactic, B-29 Doc to Allentown, Erickson Fire-Fighters Bought, FAA Reauthorization After dealing with a big letdown after the unexpected decision by Skyreach to disco>[...]
Also: Skydio Chief, Uncle Sam Sues, Dash 7 magniX, OR UAS Accelerator US Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall was given a turn around the patch in the 'X-62A Variable In-flight>[...]