People who read PPRuNe (the Professional Pilots Rumour Network) should not believe for one second that it allows unbiased comments on all issues.  PPRuNe is a commercially run website to maximise profits for the owners.

There are a number of people who believe that the PPRuNe moderators will allow both sides of an argument to be run.  It should be understood that Airservices Australia spend a fortune on spin doctors who have great influence.

For example, I recently placed a post on PPRuNe in relation to ADS-B – the fact that it could easily be ‘spoofed’ by criminals, and even electronic enthusiast vandals.  Within a day, the thread was locked off without me even being able to answer some of the quite misconceived comments that had been made.

I suggest to everyone that you don’t just look at PPRuNe, you look at all aviation sites (including this one) and then make up your own mind.

Following is an email received from a professional regional airline pilot.

Mr. Smith,

I note that once again you are being censored on PPRuNe where the moderators by no means are unbiased considering your treatment. I, like the airline pilot who wrote the letter posted on your web site feel helpless despite emailing the minister on several occasions and my local representative concerning NAS and harmful policy such as the Cost Recovery Program. How is it possible to hold our politicians accountable for the governance of an industry that is so hidden and irrelevant to mainstream Australia?

I agree with the notion that people have to die before change is made, or more likely change is forced by public outcry. Unfortunately the real reasons for accidents like Lockhart River and Mt Hotham are never exposed. Its not enough that only a dozen or so people die at one time. A Boeing or Airbus has to crash before the public will demand answers and change.

On the other hand I have to believe that we can make changes without the deaths of so many people which is why your efforts are so vitally important despite your vocal critics. If there is anything that I can do to help the cause Mr. Smith, please let me know.