Rusty60

Perhaps, that sentence of mine created the wrong impression. The need for an ASIC was intended to correspond with local government having the required amount of security available at all security controlled AD's. Which they will never do by the way. If there is a requirement by authorities for citizens to have an ASIC, then the level of security at security controlled AD's should reflect that requirement. It's ok for say, Kingsford Smith AD to require an ASIC, but not really for Hamilton in country Victoria. RAA pilots flying to non controlled AD's should in my opinion only require a pilot license and photo ID. I hope that clears up my view. Thanks for responding Yenn.

I'm not new to ASIC's, as an aircraft engineer I've been required to have one for my entire working career. However, I do have several questions and thoughts for those more learned aviation folk. Now that I have joined the flying fraternity; 1) do my passengers require an ASIC? If not, do they require my direct supervision at security controlled AD's? 2) if no RPT aircraft fly to an AD, why is it necessary to have security other than for general airport safety. 3) if no security personnel are employed to check an ASIC during AD operational hours for all those heading airside, why is it necessary to have an ASIC? Now I know there could be many opinions with respect to these questions, your thoughts are most welcome. But it seems to me that if no RPT aircraft use an AD, an ASIC would not be required under the current legislation. Surely a current pilots license along with perhaps a photo ID would suffice as proof of identification. A photo on the pilot license itself could assist in effectively showing cause to be airside. From previous posts, it seems that other than at major airports, security checks are adhoc at best. So my question is, if local authorities do not have sufficient security personnel and infrastructure available to check all citizens going airside, why should these same citizens be required to produce a current ASIC on the off chance that an inspection is carried out? I see the necessity for an ASIC, don't get me wrong. But please, if the public goes to the trouble and expense of acquiring this proof of identity and character, there needs to be a level of consistency in providing security at all security controlled registered airports. The legislators can't have it both ways, charge the public for a service and not provide that service. I hope they get it right soon. Apologies for my ramblings, it's a perfect afternoon for flying. So I'm off, cheers.

That first solo really is an interesting experience, a fabulous mix of excitement and fear, for me anyway. But that was all in the background as I focused on what I was doing and what I was taught. Well, that's the theory, actually I don't have much of a recollection of any of it. It seemed somehow to be automatic, it's difficult to put into words. I highly recommend the experience to anyone though. I've flown solo many times since that first leap skyward, it never loses its attraction.

Welcome Doc, has the solo happened yet?

Thanks for the welcome, Wangaratta is a terrific airport to learn the art of flying. Plenty of empty sky and a long runway, ah the serenity.

I'm new to flying but have spent my life in aviation. My wife and I are thoroughly enjoying the flight training process, and yes, she is into boys toys. I am so lucky!