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United States Pilots Association |
Several years ago the Air Force attempted to ram through some low level training routes for B-52 and B-1B bombers in SE New Mexico and West Texas. The USPA and NMPA fought these issues along with numerous ranchers, pilots, and others, resulting in the implementation of other routes in less populated areas. AOPA was not represented at any of the meetings.
For the past three years both USPA and NMPA were again involved in protesting the attempted grab of yet more airspace in East Central New Mexico, from Roswell to Clovis and north to Fort Sumner. Our organizations attended all of the scoping meetings and environmental impact studies, and spoke against the creation of this new expanded MOA for numerous reasons, all affecting GA safety. AOPA was not at any of the meetings. All that AOPA did was write a letter of comment to the Air Force.
Our quarrel is not with AOPA. It is with the AF and the State of NM. Pushing this type of project ahead without considering safety and inconvenience to others is foolhardy and dangerous. It is even more dangerous for an organization the size of AOPA to put out press releases taking credit for something they really had no part in, and still to this day do not understand.
If anyone wants further information on this subject please call Steve Uslan at 432-556-0120 or Dr. Bob Worthington at 505-522-6785. We will send you copies of the pertinent documents.
Steve Uslan, President
United States Pilots Association