The $30 a month is what is stopping me. Sounds too much like a user fee...

It isn't. The service is provided by a private enterprise (actually,
two of them, XM and Baron Services), and is not required for use of the
NAS. It is, however, a huge benefit for improving safety and the
utility of your aircraft.

FYI: We inquired about switching from one plan to another (there are
two plans -- "Deluxe" for $49/month, and "Regular" for $29/month), and
the XM Weather folks told us that you can switch back and forth easily,
at will -- and at no charge. We're considering downgrading the
service in the winter, when we rarely fly cross country flights.

They also said you can turn the service off completely, without charge.
This may be an option for those who don't fly in the winter.
--
Jay Honeck
Iowa City, IA
Pathfinder N56993
www.AlexisParkInn.com
"Your Aviation Destination"