Inside the Fence
* * *
Feedback from FBOs at Savannah is actually quite positive. No, the industry has not reached its robust level of the late 1990s, but signs are it is improving. In fact, several operators said they just had their best year ever.
* * *
The Transportation
Security Administration recently released its recommendations for general
aviation security, which probably resulted in a collective sigh of relief
from the industry segment. Basically, it's a best practices, common sense
guide.
Yet, there are legitimate concerns about the potential use of GA aircraft
by terrorists. Consider the recent report that Saudi security forces seized
light aircraft that were packed with explosives. The apparent goal was
to have suicide pilots blow up a Western airliner on a runway.
This is why the U.S. Secret Service is nervous about GA aircraft.
But the recommendation here is not to seek more security for GA. Rather,
it's that those in general aviation take the best practices approach seriously,
and recognize that such aircraft could be used by terrorists.
* * *
For many
years, the Combs-Gates chain of FBOs was considered the standard by which
all others were judged. The man behind that success was Harry Combs, who
not only inspired his workforce but had the talent of hiring very good
people.
Look around the industry today and you will find those people sprinkled
throughout, succeeding. And when they talk of Harry their words speak
only positives.
In December, Harry died at age 90. One suspects he'll continue to inspire
in the afterworld.
* * *
A final
thought to industry associations: Consider holding one meeting each year,
such as committee get-togethers, at universities that have aviation programs.
Seems like there's a synergy there that could benefit all.
Thanks for reading.
