A sizeable turnout on a day far better suited to the pilots seat than a conference room chair clearly demonstrated the importance and relevance of the HAA Annual Meeting and Flying Forum at Old Warden on Sunday 21st March.
The Annual Meeting included the nomination of Rick Peacock-Edwards as the new Chairman, taking over from Wally Epton after six years in the chair. It also included a vigorous debate on future airworthiness legislation and the role of the new HAA Engineering Working Group which meets with the CAA this week.
The Flying Forum included several wide-ranging debates. Barry Tempest reviewed accidents involving relevant aircraft in 2009. Shuttleworth Trust Chief Pilot Trevor Roche discussed display pilot standards and training.
Howard Cook – describing himself as "a very fortunate HAA Pilot" – described his recovery, both to the UK and to flying fitness after a life-threatening accident in Canada last year.
Finally, Cliff Spink – HAA President – asked "How best can historic aviation continue to make improvements to our safety record?
The event was further enhanced by a selection of vintage gliders carrying out display practices and a brief interlude as Peter Teichmann put his P-51D "Jumping Jacques" through its paces.
American airshow regular Mike Shreeve was an impressed visitor, describing it as "An interesting afternoon listening to the various speakers and some good discussions on topics such as airshow safety and training for flying historic aircraft."