April 25, 2013 - National Transportation Safety Board chairman Deborah Hersman today specifically recognized EAA for its efforts to improve aviation safety and exceeding recommendations in regards to amateur-built aircraft safety.
Writing in her official blog, NTSB Safety Compass, Hersman noted that the NTSB had recommended in May 2012 that EAA create and publish information regarding those people who held a Letter of Deviation Authority (LODA) that allowed flight and transition instruction in experimental category aircraft. Hersman wrote that EAA not only researched and published the list, but took further steps to improve the availability of instruction and flight-test talent for aircraft builders.
"In short, EAA did more than create the list (what we recommended). It made extensive efforts to inform the E-AB pilot community of the list and to extend the training to a builder/owner's own new aircraft," Hersman wrote. "Great job, EAA, exceeding expectations and taking specific steps to improve safety."
EAA is continuing and expanding its work to improve amateur-built safety through a variety of other activities and programs. That includes the organization's participation in the FAA Loss of Control Working Group, providing leadership to the Type Club Coalition, and efforts in aircraft certification and flight training.
"Safety is always the top priority," said Sean Elliott, EAA's vice president of advocacy and safety. "We are very appreciative of NTSB Chairman Hersman's public recognition of EAA's efforts. We will continue to work toward improving safety while pursuing our mission of growing participation in aviation, especially for those who want to participate by building and flying their own aircraft."
