We Always Let You Know How We Feel, But Want You To Let Us Know Your Thoughts

As the end of 2011 leaps up over the horizon, and where has the year gone, ANN is, as usual, assembling its annual look back at the top stories of the year, as well as what we consider to be the best, and worst, in aviation in the preceding 12 months.

This year, we'd like to get your input.

Anyone involved in our industry over the past three years knows that aviation as we know it is at a turning point. There is pressure from nearly every corner, from Washington, D.C. to local and state officials who have the authority to levy taxes, impose fees, restrict airspace and in some cases attempt limit airport use. The economic pressures are also enormous, with foreign entities at least appearing to gobble up as much of the U.S. aviation infrastructure and intellectual property as they can, possibly so that they can beat us at our own game. Fuel prices, insurance, interest rates, and the much-discussed "cost of entry" are also making it more and more difficult for the industry to expand in such a way to make it healthy.

Still, we hope that 2012 can be a turnaround year for the aviation industry, and while we admit that it'll be more like turning an aircraft carrier than cornering a Ferrari, at some point the control input has to be made to start the turn. And that's where you come in.

We're looking for your input on the best, and worst of aviation from the past 12 months. And while there's much that needs change, there is plenty to be celebrated as well. With that in mind, consider this an open invitation to let us know what you think. From a few thoughts to a full article, we'd be interested in what our readers have to say about the state of the industry, and more importantly, what can be done to begin to affect change.

Up to the challenge? We thought so. Send your ideas to us at editor@aero-news.net. We'll look forward to hearing from you, and hope to make positive change in 2012.

Happy New Year.

FMI: Send Your Ideas