I think the term is Luddite.
Add alarmist. Technology in the cockpit has been both boon and bane.
Once upon a time, it was fairly easy to spoof a committee of flight
reviewers. Creative photographic techniques, a less than ethical
official observer, and a carefully crafted foil could pass for a world
record flight.
Without a doubt, technology has reduced cheating across the board. And
especially in contests. However, those who administrate such things
are left with a low opinion of soaring pilot virtue and a fear that a
determined cheater can act with impunity. Thus the arcane requirements
for FRs.
For the rest of us, it helps to look at the problem from a more
realistic point of view. Most of the recorders on the market at
suitable for badge flights and contests. How many of us are really
going to set any world records this year? Or next?
I recall a poll conducted last year. It found that 20% of US wage
earners considered themselves to be in the top 1/2 percentile for
annual income. Conclusion, 19.5% of American wage earners have trouble
discerning facts from aspirations. Some might think that charming...
others might see an oppotunity to capitalize on it...
If anyone is considering selling their Cambridge Model 20 or 25 to
upgrade to an approved system, let me know. I'm in the market for a
backup FR.
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