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.

FMI: www.tbonafi.info/