For CAM: Search and Rescue

[artbyjody]

Since he was also a sailor - you might appreciate what Nevada is trying to do to recoup monies spent on Fossett's search and rescue:

Fossett's Widow Asked for Search Money - AOL News

[camaraderie]

I only have a problem when public funds are used to rescue idiots and adventurers. I don't have a problem with the rescues...just feel that a price should be paid for gross negligence.
In this case...Fosset was engaged in normal recreational aviation and I don't feel it is appropriate for the government to charge anything since there was no evidence of negligence. Had he been in his "balloon" my opinion would be different.
As applied to sailing...I think it is unfair to charge anyone for a rescue...but...I do think the Coast Guard should be able to bring charges for negligence, endangerment or a manifestly unsafe voyage or some such thing and be able to collect a hefty fine. Of course the boater would be ble to fight such charges in court but if the fine were sufficiently high, it might tend to encourage better preparation and decision making.

[T34C]

In this case...Fosset was engaged in normal recreational aviation and I don't feel it is appropriate for the government to charge anything since there was no evidence of negligence.

How about the lack of a flight plan? I'm not a pilot, but pretty sure that is one of the first things you learn.

[Zanshin]

T34C - flight plans are not necessary for most VFR flights and really only of use when flying from controlled airport A to controlled airport B

[Zanshin]

Speaking of charges - if you fail to close your flight then SAR will bill you