Says Plans Underway To Create Civil Aviation Authority

The downgrading by the FAA of the Philippine aviation industry to "Category 2" status has drawn calls from the country's government to revisit the rating in 90 days.

Transportation Secretary Leandro Mendoza, appearing on a government TV show called, "The Cabinet Speaks," added his voice to a chorus urging passage of legislation creating a Philippine Civil Aviation Authority. He was chosen just last week by President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo as acting chief of the Air Transport Office. Mendoza told the Philippine Daily Inquirer that seven of the 10 items in the airworthiness category have already been achieved.

What remains is training of pilots to international standards, the computerization and integration of records including information on pilots' credentials, and the hiring of qualified inspectors to license pilots and check the airworthiness of carriers.

Mondoza added that the arrival of the Airbus A380 has heightened awareness of the need for better pilot training. He also says the FAA has offered to send consultants to help craft the law creating the Philippine CAA, and to provide technical advice in the future.

Mendoza said that while safety was an issue, security was not. He said that the ATO is on a par with international standards.

Although, if you're a passenger unsure about your pilot's training or the quality of your aircraft's last inspection, the threat of terrorism probably moves down to at least #2 on your list of worries...

FMI: www.faa.gov