AOPA Reaction to Incursion Incident

Filed in archive Aviation News on May 12, 2005

I wonder what went through the mind of AOPA exec Phil Boyer when that Cessna 150 which entered restricted airspace over the Capitol in DC landed at their airfield in Fredrick, Maryland?

Here's his statement...

"A Cessna 150 is an extremely small two-seat airplane. Even fully loaded it weighs significantly less than a Honda Civic. It's simply incapable of doing much damage," said Boyer. "From what we can tell, these pilots simply made the mistake of getting lost in some of the most complex and highly regulated airspace in the country."

I'd like to hear some feedback from you. Should these errant pilots incur some punitive action? Should they be fined, or worse? Or, as with the case of the "runaway bride" Jennifer Wilbanks, should they be simply reprimanded, given a slap on the hand, and let go?

Personally, I think the PIC should have his private ticket revoked, at least for a period of time if not permanently. We live in the aftermath of 9-11 and behavior like this is inexcusable.

Regardless of whether a Cessna 150 could do much damage or not, it sent a shockwave of panic throughout the entire DC area. I hate to think this pilot should be make a scapegoat, but a strong message needs to be sent here. Or, do you think I'm overreacting?

[BTW, don't you just love the red banner at the top of the AOPA home page listing all the TFRs.]