I concur with many of your points about the state of general aviation (including business aviation) in Europe when compared to the USA (Flight International, 4-10 February). It is correct to say that "European politicians have to be made aware that general aviation is not elitist", but more importantly, these same politicians need to know that GA is about "personal" transport for business and recreational purposes.
I also believe that the European Commission is failing in its obligations under the Treaty of Rome in respect of the enlargement of the internal market. As local aerodromes close across Europe and GA is priced out of regional airports, how can GA develop? The EC has told the UK Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) that it has no expertise in GA, preferring to leave its organisation to local authorities. Can you imagine only coaches and lorries being permitted to use the highways and car drivers being forbidden from using their cars on Sunday mornings or between noon and 14.00 on Saturdays?
Small light aircraft are often used by business people for personal travel as it is quicker than surface transport and, unlike airline travel, you can go when you want.
Failure to support GA with the access it needs to airspace and aerodromes will eventually mean that GA will not be economically viable. Our fuel is taxed (airline fuel is not) and we pay landing/terminal charges as well as Euronav fees for instrument flight rule journeys where the aircraft weigh over 2t.
Martin Robinson Chief Executive, AOPA UK
Source: Flight International
