While I have mixed feelings about the current run-up in automobile and
aviation fuel prices, I can see where increased fuel costs are going
to significantly impact recreational GA flying operations. The high
price of maintaining flying currency for private pilots has always
been a deterrent to participation, but now, with little in the way of
wage increases for the past several years, and the ever increasing
number and size of Temporary Flight Restrictions, the doubling of fuel
prices over the last year or so can only contribute to the declining
number of GA flights. But AOPA has a plan to swell the ranks of
private pilots and the resources to implement it.


Exclusive Audio Interviews from the AOPA Fly-In

PHIL BOYER: 40% OF AOPA MEMBERS ARE SIGNIFICANTLY DECREASING THEIR
FLYING DUE TO FUEL PRICES
(http://www.avweb.com/alm?podcast20080609&kw=AVwebAudio)
AVweb's Mary Grady was on location covering AOPA's annual fly-in
and open house in Frederick, Md., on Saturday. Mary brought her
recorder along and caught up with AOPA President Phil Boyer, who
commented on a range of topics, including the latest on user fees
and AOPA research on skyrocketing fuel prices and their bearing on
members' flying activities and new pilot starts.

Click here

(http://www.avweb.com/podcast/files/2..._AOPAFlyIn.mp3)
to download. (12.8 MB, 14:00)