On 10/31/2010 5:45 PM, vaughn wrote:
wrote in message
...
I agree that automotive medical incapacitation leading to an accident is rare,
but the driving environment is quite a bit different than the flying
environment.

OK, then look at the medical incapacitation of glider pilots, which is no worse
than that of the general population of GA pilots, even though they can fly
without a medical certificate.. In just a few years, I predict that there will
be enough data for us to know that LSA pilots also have similar results, even
though some of them may have been attracted to LSA's precisely because they
can't qualify for a third class medical..

Vaughn

Oh, I agree completely, and it's a great observation that those who
might otherwise be denied medicals will be attracted to LSAs. It all
may be related to relative damage done by an aircraft with an
unconscious pilot. Glider / balloon / LSA, not so much. General
Aviation aircraft, somewhat more. Large commercial aircraft, quite a
bit more. And so more medical supervision is needed. Great in theory,
but I am unconvinced that a third-class medical exam every three (or
two) years makes everyone safer. Second- and first-class medicals? Maybe.

Along the same lines, I don't know why motor homes do not require any
special training while scooters and motorcycles do. The AARP lobby, no
doubt.