Convention success

At the recent 10th RAAA Convention a new mood was evident. No one was getting carried away but the mood was definitely upbeat. There was extensive interaction with manufacturers and suppliers. Operators felt that the tide may be turning. There is just not enough evidence to make a definitive call as yet. It is likely that operators will soldier on with their current fleets and staffing levels but are keeping a weather eye on any major growth from China and India.

It was again very heartening to see the quality of the young people who won the Jeppesen and Michelin pilot and engineering scholarships, the former presented by the Jeppesen International CEO, Mark Van Tine. Mark also energised the delegates with his vision for the emerging navigation technologies. We should never lose sight of the fact that these young people are Australia’s aviation future. Sure, they will experience many challenges in their careers but they are entering an industry, now in its second century, and with much unrealised potential.

Jack Pelton, President, Chairman and CEO of Cessna Aircraft, reminded everyone of the international volatility in the regional, business and private aircraft industry. He gave an object lesson in how a large aviation company responds to a massive decrease in demand but at the same time stays focussed on its long-term goals.

At the Convention John McCormick, the CASA Director of Aviation Safety, was very clear in his vision for safety in aviation at all levels. You will not die wondering as to what are John’s views on this important topic. The RAAA looks forward to working with John and his colleagues on all reasonable steps to enhance safety across regional aviation.

Where is the Aviation White Paper? Maybe by the time this article is published it will be out. It must offer clear policy positions and directions or the energy that went into hundreds of submissions will have been wasted. Many practical ideas from the industry have been given to government. Let us hope that the final document is not a bland white –wash.

Change is in the air but no-one is quite sure of its direction. Let’s hope that growth will return to all parts of regional aviation in the coming months. Recent significant investments in the training of pilots and engineers by some astute leaders in regional aviation indicates that sustainable growth is close.

It may sound a long way off but the RAAA will celebrate its 30th Anniversary at the 2010 Annual Convention, 15-17 September, Hyatt Coolum. This is a very significant milestone and every effort will be made to make the 2010 Convention the most relevant and enjoyable yet. I can assure you that you will not want to miss it so mark it in your diaries now.