On Thu, 16 Aug 2007 20:30:46 -0700, Jay Honeck
wrote in .com:

Once they've got the right staffing levels,
and their computer systems working together properly, I think we're
gonna like what we see

With the exception of briefers with local metrological knowledge as we
had before the FSS privatization, what do you think we're going to
like about the new FSS?

I've already noticed that the new briefers are treating me like the
CUSTOMER, not an annoyance, as some of the gummint FSS guys would
occasionally do. It's a matter of attitude and tone which makes
calling them much more pleasant.

Personally, I would prefer not trade a briefer with local metrological
knowledge for one adept at shmoozing.

They also clearly have access to superior computer equipment, and are
being encouraged to use every tool at their disposal to help us,
including websites like ADDs. This was NOT the case with the old FSS
guys, whom I often found were using less-capable weather forecasting
tools than I was.

Aviation Digital Data Service was an experimental service, and as
such, it wasn't accepted by FAA for use in complying with preflight
regulations. I guess that has evolved now.

Finally, the fact that many of the new guys are real pilots sure gives
me a sense of confidence that I'm talking to someone who actually
walks the walk. I rarely had the impression with old FSS.

How do you fell about FSS privatization paving the way for ATC user
fees?