"Burt Compton" wrote in message
...
Scenario # 1: I've got 2 guys (with FAA SEL Pilot Certificates) who
planned to
come to Marfa, Texas for glider training next week. Neither has a US
Passport
nor can they obtain a Certified Copy of their Birth Certificate because
they
are told you need to go to your home town or county to obtain it in person
from
the Clerk's office. Both of the guys tell me they are US Citizens, but
there's
no time to obtain TSA required documents in time to start training with me
next
week. Even though your FAA Pilot Certificate lists your Nationality, it
is
not a valid form of ID according to the TSA "help" desk. TSA tells me I
cannot
train them. I wonder if they are giving out consistent advice?

Scenario # 2: Third student is a local 13 year old youngster. Hopes to
solo
on 14th birthday over the Christmas Holidays. Has no previous glider
training
except great RC model flyer. Been reading books and watching soaring
videos.
No Passport. Mom working on getting an original certified copy of his
birth
certificate from out of state. TSA "help" desk has no idea what I'm
talking
about. Advised me that no one can fly solo under age 16. Looks like TSA
doesn't understand gliders - or at least the advisor I talked with was not
aware.


I occurs to me that while general aviation is the first target of TSA "carry
your papers" edict, it won't be the last. While this is deplorable, and
represents harsh treatment for our visiting friends from abroad, there may
be some light at the end of the tunnel. If everyone in the US must prove
their citizenship to rent a car or buy an airline ticket, the impact on
soaring will diminish as the citizenry becomes accustomed to the
inconvenience. Sad thing to have to say.

Bill Daniels

Bill Daniels