In a new post at the Air Facts Journal, blogger John Zimmerman strikes back at may be one of the biggest threats to GA: Ourselves. He notes that “roughly 20% of Americans think the world will end in their lifetime. That seems awfully pessimistic, but these doomsday preppers have nothing on pilots. Based on a number of recent conversations and comments from readers here at Air Facts, a solid majority believe general aviation will end in their lifetimes. Not get weaker — cease to exist.”
Check it out here, then let us know what you think. Is he, as he says, just a “a young whippersnapper by aviation standards” or is he right?
I suspect the future of GA will to a great extent depend on the escalating price of fuel and government mandated special equipment like ADS-B.
Wow, this article is SPOT ON. GA may not return to its historical peak, but it is absolutely self-defeating to lament its demise and simply blame your favorite specter, rather than trying to do something more positive.
I couldn’t agree more. Flying is vibrant where I am. We’ve got three flying clubs on the field and we chrurn out a couple new pilots every year. In fact we have more students now than we’ve ever had. Aviation isn’t an easy hobby, but if you’re interested and dedicated you can get involved. I’d like to own a Bonanza, too, but I’m mighty happy with my IFR-certified Cherokee 140/160.