Oshkosh 2001

- Letter written by a pilot who visited our booth -

July 29, 2001

Dear Senator Jeffords:

I am writing this letter to bring several issues to your attention. Each of my concerns deals directly with one topic area - flight service. As a student pilot at Embry Riddle Aeronautical University, and as a private pilot, I largely depend on flight service. The information that is provided to me by flight service is critical to my life's safety, as well as those around (and below) me when I am flying. The following is a compilation of personal concerns dealing with the present flight service system.

It is very important that there be a sufficient number of flight service controllers; in 1981, there were 3,576. Today, there are only 2912 while only 2206 of those are operating radios. I am sure that you, as a passenger, would appreciate knowing that there were plenty of people "watching over" and "guiding" your flight, as do I, as your pilot. Unfortunately, the FAA has not been forced to maintain a reasonable quota of flight service controllers.

With the rare opportunity that FSS has to hire new controllers, it is important that quality controllers be hired. This goal also poses a challenge, as FSS does not have the ability to attract controllers via pay as the ATC does. I sure don't want some Joe Shmoe with no experience to have my livelihood in his hands� and I also don't want FSS to not have up-to-date and appropriate software and/or weather equipment. FSS automation equipment was designed and built in the 1970s. I would like to be reassured that this equipment is procured and deployed at a reasonable pace. This is my and your lives that are on the line.

I am asking you to seriously consider my points, and represent my opinions, as your voice is louder than mine when it comes to dealing with Congress. I am a native Vermonter. I strongly support your political decisions - obviously your most recent "switch" as well as those decisions that you have made it years past. I hope that you can understand my concerns and will support my recommendations.

Thank you for your time!

Sincerely,

Jennifer 

[Full name and address withheld]