(Michael) wrote:

(Rick Durden) wrote
It's interesting to read of your anti-safety perspective...

I find it highly counterproductive than when someone starts asking the
hard questions, he is immediately labeled as anti-safety. I think
these questions need to be asked.

Michael

Well said Michael. Now I will add additional info to refute Durden's
assertion that I am anti-safety. I started skydiving in the mid-70s.
One main malfunction where I had to deploy my reserve according to my
training. I would do it again today under the same circumstances.

I scuba dive. That also has an element of risk but I have mitigated
that risk with good equipment, mucho training (improves safety and
ability to handle problems properly...not bolting to the surface (or
pulling the handle)).

And I fly. I mantain contact with the local approach control when
flying above my local airport due to safety concerns of making
undesired contact with commercial jets.

I took a mountain flying course last year before I ever ventured into
the Rockies. Sounds like a safety minded pilot to me.

I have cancelled many flights in the summer afternoon because of
building rain cells. I have see too many strong gust fronts and see
others risk their safety because of them to risk it myself. Sounds
like a safe attitude on my part.

I have diverted to another airport because of rain over my airport.
Maybe a wussy move...but in my opinion a safe decision.

I could go on, but Mr Durden, you are 100% wrong about me being
"anti-safety". By questioning the pilot's role in these incidents, my
view is more likely to achieve real reductions in lost lives that
adopting a "pull the handle" approach.

Ron Lee