Operators, large and small, will be impacted by the new Safety Tax. Whilst the large RPT operators will be able to recoup much of it through slightly increased ticket costs (rightly blaming the govt in the process), smaller charter operators and flying schools, etc. will have to again raise their base charges amidst an already difficult trading environment. LAMEs and pilots themselves will also possibly now have to pay for their licences. Meanwhile, the CAA is doing everything within its ability to both inform and discuss this complex issue with industry. A hotline has even been set up so that you can have your say NOW and not after the final decision has been made by the Federal Government. (Rob Finlayson)