Regarding “New or Used Aircraft: Which is Right for You?” (May 2015 Flight Training), I think you’ve lost a sense of reality for the vast majority of your members. With the cost of a new aircraft upwards of and past $200,000 versus a decent used aircraft plus or minus $50,000 there really isn’t much of an option for new over used. AOPA really should put some emphasis on bringing down the cost of new single-engine aircraft to that of a luxury car (plus or minus $70,000) so that there really is a choice of new versus used.
Even your “Reimagined 152” is outside the budget of most people. I am certain that with changes to the regulatory and liability environments this is well within the realm of possibility.
Michael Cohn
Orange County, New York
Become a pro
I am a regular reader of your excellent magazine, and enjoy the valuable information you provide each month. “After the Checkride: Become A Pro” (May 2015 Flight Training), contains an error in “Medical Certification Requirements.” You use a towplane pilot as an example of an operation requiring a commercial certificate. That is not a good example, because that activity can be performed by a person holding a private pilot certificate. If a commercial pilot tows a glider it is essentially a private pilot activity, which only requires a third class FAA medical.
Bottom line is: A private pilot may act as PIC of an aircraft towing a glider (or an unpowered ultralight aircraft) and receive compensation for that activity provided he or she meets the requirements of FAR 61.69. Therefore, a commercial pilot certificate and second class medical are not required.
Over the years this has been a very confusing issue. FAA Flight Standards policies provided incorrect information until a legal interpretation was issued by the office of chief counsel. The Soaring Society of America has information for those who would like to learn more (www.soaringsociety.com).
James Duea
Yukon, Oklahoma
Thank You
I just want to say that I do enjoy the experience AOPA gives through its website and magazines. Without it I probably would have given up a while ago. I do find it very valuable for where I’m at in my journey. I am looking forward to many more years.
Mike Brosnan
Longmeadow, Massachusetts
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