Following a series of accidents and incidents this year, Malaysian DCA has implemented a nationwide audit of flying clubs. I suppose this is a move in the right direction to ensure that clubs are training future pilots properly and safely. The latest accident happened just a week ago which involved HM Aerospace's Diamond DA40 aircraft resulting in 1 fatality. 2 Academy students were practising instrument flying when upon take-off they are suspected of experiencing engine trouble and crash landed. The safety pilot died of severe injuries. It goes to show that incidents can happen not only in flying clubs but in schools as well (in Malaysia, there is a distinction between the two).
However, more needs to be done to ensure a vibrant and thriving GA community. Malaysia has zero tax on aviation goods, but that has proven to be virtually ineffective in promoting the growth of GA. What is needed is a sound procedural framework of regulations that leave little room for manipulation and confusion. Players in the industry need to know what can be done and how to go about doing it. A case in point is the shortage of instructors. The academies are not keen to conduct instructor rating courses because they are short of manpower. But that is precisely why all the academies should be churning out more instructors so that they will have a bigger pool of talent to tap into for future needs.
All of us that participate in our chosen aviation hobby or career in Malaysia should play our part and be part of a club or organisation that is actively doing its part to keep GA alive and kicking. Join in the next Fly-In or volunteer your time to fly children and newbies (akin to EAA's Young Eagle Program). You will be doing your part to keep Malaysia's aviation legacy going.
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
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