Airport Safety

Dear Editor,

My condolences for the families of those taken in the recent aircraft accident.

The FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) lists the George T. Lewis Airport as an "Uncontrolled Airport" for the specific reason that there is no control tower. No flight plans are required, no checks for valid pilots license or annual aircraft maintenance. Although pilots must have their license "within their grasp" they are not required to carry any type of insurance. No license for ultra light or home made aircraft is necessary.

In addition to the 47 crashes (26 fatalities) since 1962 investigated by the NTSB (National Transportation Safety Bureau)
See: http://www.ntsb.gov/ntsb/query.asp
There are 17 other "minor damage" incidents not requiring NTSB reporting.
See: http://www.asias.faa.gov/pls/portal/PORTAL.wwa_app_module.show?p_sessionid=103812 (select airport name).

The warning plaque on the tree about "lost horizons" is not as conspicuous as it should be and is invisible at night. Next time pilots both visiting and local, even those highly experienced, feel the urge to embark on a flight of fancy, they should reconsider their skill set and limitations as well as those of the George T. Lewis "Uncontrolled" Airport

Eve B. Jensen
Cedar Key

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