These are unique and frightening times. Every day we watch the COVID-19 virus spreading further out of control across the whole globe, killing many in a terrible fashion. Government authorities have shuttered “non-essential services” to slow the spread of this infection and “flatten the curve.” Here in NY State, a full lock-down starts tomorrow. Obviously, CV-19 is very contagious and also often asymptomatic so it’s mostly undetectable in any social setting.
Since flight training does not permit “physical isolation” to prevent the spread of COVID-19, it seems prudent for schools to cease flight training/testing. Though there is a clause that makes it technically legal for schools to continue (as essential transportation service) this seems short-sighted in light of the greater community benefits of isolation. Can we really claim flight training is “essential” when real heroes are out there struggling to keep our ATC, infrastructure and health care systems functioning? In our flying world, this is like continuing “1sm/clear of clouds.” Even if it is legal, it is unwise. We don’t want to make this problem worse. #stayhome And support our brave “essential workers” in any way you safely can.
In 1665 when Cambridge University closed for a year because of the Great Plague of London, a young scholar named Isaac Newton was sent home.
While at home, he discovered Calculus and refined the ideas that later became his theory of gravity.
In 1606, Shakespeare wrote Macbeth, King Lear, and Anthony and Cleopatra while quarantined at home.
The positive spin here is that this break from training provides an opportunity to review, reinforce and improve your knowledge. A home ATD is a wonderful tool to practice some tougher scenarios and improve skills. SAFE is collaborating with Gold Seal to Livestream a week of aviation excitement during the canceled week of the Florida Expo; sign up here for notifications! Be SAFE…
SAFECFI-PRO™ workshop
is open to every aviation educator at every level (even if you are working on your CFI?) June10/11 at Sporty’s Pilot Shop.
Join SAFE to support our safety mission of generating aviation excellence in teaching and flying. Our amazing member benefits pay back your contribution (1/3 off your ForeFlight subscription)! Our FREE SAFE Toolkit App puts required pilot endorsements and experience requirements right on your smartphone and facilitates CFI+DPE teamwork. Our CFI insurance was developed by SAFE specifically for CFIs (and is the best value in the business).
Thank you for posting this!