Pilot or not, there’s no debate that aviation in the US represents both our basic freedoms and our strong transportation system.
GAPPA could greatly expand the existing general aviation pilot base. If you haven’t heard about it yet look at these links and get familiar. If you support it, I urge you to let your lawmakers know.
I think it has the potential of addressing the declining pilot population. By allowing more pilots to fly the way most of us fly everyday we get more pilots flying and staying active longer. Aviation wins!
I sent emails to both senators and my house rep. Please learn about these bills and contact your elected officials! Your message doesn’t have to be long or eloquent. Below is what I used so feel free to use it or modify it to fit you.
GAPPA background from EAA
GAPPA FAQ from AOPA
http://www.aopa.org/Advocacy/Legislative-Affairs/General-Aviation-Pilot-Protection-Act-FAQs.aspx
Sign the EAA Petition
I suggest writing a note in your own words, but they also have a way to easily send your senators and rep a message, after signing the petition.
http://govt.eaa.org/14781/support-general-aviation-pilot-protection-act/
Here are links to find contact info for your senators and representatives.
Senators list
Representatives list
Example
Dear Senator (insert name),
I’m a constituent and I support the General Aviation Pilot Protection Act. Please lend your support to H.R. 3708 (Rokita) and S. 2103 (Boozman).
I’m an active and passionate pilot and believe the strong aviation community in the United States is a powerful advantage in many ways, both to individual freedoms and to the transportation system. These bills expand on the FAA’s successful sport pilot medical standard. Not only will they strengthen general aviation by getting more pilots flying and keeping them active longer (a major concern for everyone in aviation), they will save pilots and the FAA time and money.
I urge you to cosponsor S. 2103 and do your part to keep U.S. aviation strong.
Thank you for your time.
Respectfully,
Michael Glen Becker