Edjumakatin' Barney Fife…

[timwinters]

Well, actually this is "non-pilot training" but I guess this forum is as close as it gets...

So, we had an event at the local city owned grass strip (0T3) where I’m domiciled. A real major league Barney Fife event, nonetheless.

Background: I constitute probably 75% (or more) of the operations at this strip, everybody knows my plane and, unfortunately, because the strip so little used, anytime a strange plane shows up, it gets the attention of the local yokels. Also, I've been hornswoggled into “managing” the strip for the city. I certainly don’t mind helping out since, basically, it’s my private strip.

So, I’m at City Hall late last week discussing some issues with our city manager when one of the city cops walks by and says “we had some excitement at the airport last week.”

“Really? What?” I ask.

“A plane was attempting to land in the wrong direction, he tried two or three times and couldn’t land because he was going in the wrong direction” said this young small town cop who is only allowed to have one bullet “so I hit him with my spotlight to let him know that he needed to land the other way.”

“What’s the wrong direction?” I ask.

“Away from town instead of towards town” says he.

“So what makes you think he needed to land towards town?” I ask.

“That’s the way you always land” says he.

“Only when the wind’s out of the south” says I and I proceeded to explain to him the concept of landing and taking off into the wind. A concept I’m confident went right over his head. I also explained that that the flight schools at a couple of nearby airports (KCGI and KMDH) have contacted us about coming over for training because we’re the closest grass strip to either one. “Other things besides simple landings regularly happen at airports” said I.

I followed up with “And you hit him with your spotlight when?”

“Once he landed and was rolling down the runway” says he.

At least the stupid little Fokker didn’t try to spotlight the plane when it was in the air.

We obviously had a major league dumba$$ moment at 0T3 so I sat down yesterday with the police chief and discussed the event with him. “My intent is NOT to reprimand this young man in any way. My intent is for all of us to sit down and have an educational session so this doesn’t happen again.”

So, I’m invited to the next police department weekly meeting and thus my question of all the folks here is "do you have an outline, a PowerPoint presentation, or anything else that is aimed at educating the “layman” on aviation and some of the simpler concepts of aviation and aviating?"

All input appreciated. Gotta educate Barney!

 

[pbramlett]

Tell him to go have a coke float at the diner and stay away from the airport.

 

[murphey]

Well, you could start with the EAA Young Eagle material, targeted to ages 8-17. Then move right into the Kings' material for dealing with LEOs.

Sorry, couldn't resist.

What you're really looking for is very simple aerodynamics (wings & lift) and an explanation why it's safer to land & take off into the wind. A brief review of FAA AIM material for landings & takeoffs, and definitely point out that pilots adhere to Federal rules no matter where they are.

Perhaps a small balsa wood or plastic airplane and a fan to illustrate.

Hm...definitely the EAA Young Eagles material.

 

[DaleB]

I wouldn't waste any time trying to teach them aerodynamics. They don't want to learn to fly. I'd focus on explaining the very VERY basics of how small airports operate (ANYONE can land there, no flight plans needed, can be any time of day or night, they can turn the lights on from the air, etc). Then I'd give them an idea of the things that pilots might be doing -- full stop landings, touch & go, low pass/go-around, all that jazz. Then explain how bad it would be to spotlight or approach a plane basically at any time the engine is running.

Don't try to make proto-pilots out of them. Just try to keep them from hurting anyone.

 

[Capt. Geoffrey Thorpe]

I would think one would want to touch on things that a LEO might reasonably expect to ask for (ramp check). Things that are not illegal (driving up to the airplane). Safety issues (stay away from the prop, airplanes gots bad brakes and not necessarily good visibility out the front). Pattern operations and the wind as you mention. Who to contact in the event of a significant incident.

 

[N801BH]

I would offer him a ride in a plane so he can see how it all plays out..

If it works out good then you have a new 'private security guard' for the airport as he will want more flights and you will have a best friend...

If you make him puke then there will be ALOT points added to your drivers license as he will be pulling you over daily.

 

[kyleb]

I would emphasize that the pilot of any aircraft has the ultimate responsibility on how he operates the aircraft, subject to the FAR's. I would point Barney Fife and his cohorts towards a link to the FAR's, but explain that the FAA is responsible for enforcing the FAR's.

I would also explain that other than general law enforcement (do you have a loitering or theft problem at the airport?), the role of LEO's at the local airport is pretty small. I would also point out that LEO's can ask for credentials, but the time/opportunities where that is appropriate are pretty limited.

 

[poadeleted20]

I wouldn't waste any time trying to teach them aerodynamics. They don't want to learn to fly. I'd focus on explaining the very VERY basics of how small airports operate (ANYONE can land there, no flight plans needed, can be any time of day or night, they can turn the lights on from the air, etc). Then I'd give them an idea of the things that pilots might be doing -- full stop landings, touch & go, low pass/go-around, all that jazz. Then explain how bad it would be to spotlight or approach a plane basically at any time the engine is running.

Don't try to make proto-pilots out of them. Just try to keep them from hurting anyone.

I'm with Dale.

 

[MBDiagMan]

Take it easy on Barney. He was only trying to "nip it in the bud!"

 

[ebetancourt]

Since it is grass, emphasize seeing the pilot - if they can't see the pilot, the pilot can't see them. (Taildragger)

 

[wsuffa]

Take it easy on Barney. He was only trying to "nip it in the bud!"

"out of an abundance of caution...." Just wait until he sees one of those TSA "see something, say something" flyers....

 

[Capt. Geoffrey Thorpe]

He gets some credit for noticing that there is a predominate direction for landings...

I like the ride idea.

I would not waste time on aerodynamics.

What about off airport stuff - what to do when someone ends up in a farmer's field? (It's not a miracle that everybody didn't die. It's not a "Crash landing" if the airplane is intact.)

 

[cavmedic]

Aerodynamics may be a bit over their head.
Think of how you would want them explaining some aspects of their job to you , and keep it in a similar manner. KISS . If anyone wants further info , talk to them offline about it. You may get some people that are actually interested.


Maybe explain to them about referencing the windsock may indicate why they are landing the way they are, Remote lighting ( so they do not think someone is messing around) , basic safety etc.

Then offer a ground tour of the aircraft , basic systems and egress. Chances are IF there was ever an emergency, PD would probably make it to the strip prior to any EMS and Fire. It wouldn't hurt for them to know how to open a door and remove a seat belt.

 

[Capt. Geoffrey Thorpe]

You might also point out that, due to the laws of physics, a 9/11 wanabe in a Cessna 150 isn't going to take down a building. Point them to the 1/5/2002 attack.

 

[wsuffa]

You might also point out that, due to the laws of physics, a 9/11 wanabe in a Cessna 150 isn't going to take down a building. Point them to the 1/5/2002 attack.

Barney don't get no "laws of physics". Easier to point out that a .22 will not take down a bear (pronounced "bar") and a 12 gauge might.... and a C150 is like a 22 compared to a 737.

 

[Capt. Geoffrey Thorpe]

Barney don't get no "laws of physics". Easier to point out that a BB gun will not take down a bear (pronounced "bar") and a 12 gauge might.... and a C150 is like a BB gun compared to a 737.

FTFY...

 

[Jeanie]

Bless his hearrrrrrt, he may be a doofus but he was trying to help make it right. I think he should be thanked for his concern and if he really wants to help then he can learn a lot right here at this little meeting.
Then tell them about what the other folks have suggested.

 

[JGoodish]

All input appreciated. Gotta educate Barney!

It doesn't sound like you have a "Barney Fife," it sounds like you have a LEO who isn't a pilot, and therefore can't reasonably be expected to be familiar with aircraft or airport operations. Yes, if the airport is in his jurisdiction he should be educated, but I'm guessing that such education is rare for LEOs unless someone such as yourself takes the initiative. I'm not sure that the guy really deserves condescension at this point, and if he wanted to, he could probably make YOUR life really difficult.

If I were in your shoes, I'd take the opportunity to focus on the basics of aircraft operations at airports, normal airport operations, activity which may arouse suspicion, etc. No point in lecturing them about the FAA's authority over aircraft operations if they may become threatened. It sound as though they need the basics of what to expect and what perhaps should be considered outside the ordinary (and therefore warrant their investigation). LEOs who hang around airports can be a huge asset to avoid security issues and discourage theft.

It might also be a good idea to have an open line of communication with the local LEOs, so that if something is going to change at the airport (such as an increase in training activity), they're aware of it and why it is happening. I'd try to use them as an asset rather than adversary.



JKG

 

[dell30rb]

They have cops who are only allowed to have one bullet?

I think you'll do fine by just doing a quick explanation of normal operations, planes can land both directions depending on the winds, touch N go's, low approaches, go arounds. You should also let them know that you appreciate them patrolling the airport because it guards against theft, vandalism or loitering, but as a general rule, when the prop is turning on an airplane the FAA is the only body authorized to enforce rules, and that interfering with a running aircraft in its operations could affect safety of flight and is also a federal crime.

 

[Matthew]

I think others said it best - don't try to train them, just try to inform. Load up some coffee and donuts (pun intended) for a Sat AM and try to set up a group fly-in. They might end up seeing planes trying to take off and land, at the same time, in opposite directions. That'll learn 'em how a real airport works.

 

[murphey]

He gets some credit for noticing that there is a predominate direction for landings...

I like the ride idea.

I would not waste time on aerodynamics.

What about off airport stuff - what to do when someone ends up in a farmer's field? (It's not a miracle that everybody didn't die. It's not a "Crash landing" if the airplane is intact.)

I bring up "simple aerodynamics" only to explain why airplanes prefer to land into the wind.

 

[flyingron]

They have cops who are only allowed to have one bullet?

I once had a DOD security guard tell me it was a good thing they make him account for his bullets because if he had a spare he would have shot me.

 

[timwinters]

It doesn't sound like you have a "Barney Fife," it sounds like you have a LEO who isn't a pilot, and therefore can't reasonably be expected to be familiar with aircraft or airport operations. (snip) I'm not sure that the guy really deserves condescension at this point,

I agree up to the point where he "spotlighted" a running aircraft. That's when he entered Barney's world.

They have cops who are only allowed to have one bullet?

Just a joke, Andy would only allow Barney to carry one.

Thanks, everyone for the input, AOPA is also sending me some literature that they think will help.

 

[rainsux]

My thoughts:

Do not touch a propellor. Ever. (One failure-mode for the ignition system is "on")

No walking backwards on the ramp. Ever.

Most GA/recreational pilots are passionate & knowledgeable about their
hobby. Do not attempt BS them with your aviation knowledge. It will
likely make them suspicious of you and decrease their cooperation.

Spot-lighting a pilot destroys night vision and it takes ~20 mins to recover.

Do not stand/park directly in front of an airplane. Especially a tail dragger. You might
be obscured from view.

Might be wise to explain that we have itty bitty (go kart like) brakes; and that
stopping power is limited. Also wise explain that our parking brakes are not to be
trusted.

Show them what a pilot certificate looks like ... and that it is valid inspite of the fact
that it lacks both a photo and expiration date. The line drawings are Wilbur & Orville,
not the certificate holder.

If possible, show them a Student Pilot certificate.

It's a "certificate," not a "license." <g>

Medicals ... probably best to explain that sometimes they are required; sometimes,
not. And when they are required; expiration dates are not listed.

Also wise to explain that federal LEOs are especially stoopid in this regard. Especially
DHS/CBP (AMOC) and DEA (EPIC) who will insist "they know better." CBP and DEA
guides for local LEO's has it mostly wrong re: pilot medicals, pilot logbooks, aircraft
logbooks, 337's, charts/maps, etc.

Heck, give them the AMOC & EPIC [cough] guides (see p2). Have the officers
make
the necessary corrections themselves.

Explain N-numbers ... that they get re-cycled and if/when the feds say "stolen," it
is entirely possible that they've got it wrong. Explain that different sizes are okay.

Flight plans are, mostly, optional.

Airports and FAA navigation waypoints/IDs (and routes) are indecipherable
gibberish to anyone that is not a pilot. Ex: PTK:SVM:KNEADS5:ADS is not
suspicious.

Pilot logbooks do not have to be carried aboard an aircraft.

Aircraft logbooks do not have to be carried aboard an aircraft.

If a plane lands when a storm is approaching, offer a "civil assist" (ride) to shelter
(or civilization).

Run-ups are expected/normal. Minor changes in "the sound" are expected. Major
changes or backfires are not typical, but not necessarily, bad/wrong.

Many pilots carry flight cases. They can be hard or soft-sided. It's not "unusual."

Some of us carry survival gear. i.e. If it looks like a sleeping bag, it might just be a
sleeping bag. Ditto: Tools, spares, oil, firearms, etc.

Unlike autos, airplanes are mostly fragile. Wheel pants are decorative, not
structural. Wing struts, tail struts and control surfaces can be easily
bent/destoryed. If you must enter/open/peek/peer; do NOT force ... seek
knowledgeable/trusted assistance from a pilot or mechanic.

Formation flying is legal.

The use of automotive gasoline is legal, for some aircraft. (Varies by
individual aircraft, even of the same mfg/model.)

It is legal for pilot/owners to perform basic maintenance themselves.

It is not suspicious for pilots to fly 50-200 miles "for a hamburger." Even a crappy
one. Really.

Show them an external control lock. If an aircraft is taxiing (or preparing
to taxi) with this in-place, intercept the aircraft (and save a life).

If you wish to question an arriving pilot, and it is not a dead calm. Tying
down the aircraft with ropes or chains is a reasonable request, lest it get
blown away or damaged.

If a K9 is necessary; use a passive-alert dog.

If the pilot is not wearing a BIG WATCH; call for back-up. It's almost
certain
that he is a terrorist. Or; perhaps he is over-compensating for a small @#$%!

 

[timwinters]

My thoughts:

and they were great...all of them. Thanks a ton for taking the time to generate that list. Really, really helpful.

 

[Skip Miller]

I bring up "simple aerodynamics" only to explain why airplanes prefer to land into the wind.

You don't have to explain it. Just tell Barney and Co. that it is safest to land into the wind, and leave it at that. Unless someone asks why.

-Skip

 

[Pilawt]

You don't have to explain it. Just tell Barney and Co. that it is safest to land into the wind, and leave it at that. Unless someone asks why.

Hand him a kite and tell him to run downwind until it flies.

 

[kimberlyanne546]

Your town sounds totally different than my town. Great thread.

 

[Skylane81E]

You might also explane that planes do not have reverce. The cop who parked infront of me to eat his lunch actually signaled me to back up when I pulled up to him.

 

[Capt. Geoffrey Thorpe]

Oh, and it's not a federal air terror crime to carry a gun in your own airplane.

 

[rainsux]

This is DEA's (EPIC) guide for local LEOs re: GA aircraft & ops. I once tried to interest
AOPA in correcting the inaccuracies. AOPA declined.

 

[rainsux]

This is CBP's (AMOC) guide for local LEOs re: GA aircraft & ops. Sigh ...

 

[Skylane81E]

Wow, first one isn't horrible (LEOs often use cominations of otherwise legal activities to determine if a closer look is needed)

But the second.. Not so much

 

[dukeblue219]

Wow, first one isn't horrible (LEOs often use cominations of otherwise legal activities to determine if a closer look is needed)

But the second.. Not so much

I am curious... what is wrong with the second document? The only thing I saw that was fishy was the requirement to carry a logbook with you, but the document is very clear that none of those requirements are arrestable anyway...

 

[Capt. Geoffrey Thorpe]

Wow, first one isn't horrible (LEOs often use cominations of otherwise legal activities to determine if a closer look is needed)

But the second.. Not so much

Except the first is telling them to demand an FAA medical form from Sport Pilots plus a pilot certificate and registration from part 103 operators, and you have to carry the 337 for your tip tanks in the aircraft...

A few minor things that could cause problems for a lot of pilots (lock you up until they get sorted out? ) for no reason.

 

[timwinters]

Well, this has morphed into a session that will include the local fire department and we've decided to include some basics on what---and what not---to do if there is ever an accident or incident at our field. i.e. what the FAA/NTSB do not want disturbed, how/if to make the aircraft safe and secure, etc.

I'm not educated on, and really don't know where to begin on, this topic...is anyone aware of any literature out there covering this?

 

[Skip Miller]

Well, this has morphed into a session that will include the local fire department and we've decided to include some basics on what---and what not---to do if there is ever an accident or incident at our field. i.e. what the FAA/NTSB do not want disturbed, how/if to make the aircraft safe and secure, etc.

I'm not educated on, and really don't know where to begin on, this topic...is anyone aware of any literature out there covering this?

Tim, there is a danger into cramming too much into the lesson plan for this session. How much time are you allotted? You might have to break this up into several sessions.

-Skip

 

[cavmedic]

Well, this has morphed into a session that will include the local fire department and we've decided to include some basics on what---and what not---to do if there is ever an accident or incident at our field. i.e. what the FAA/NTSB do not want disturbed, how/if to make the aircraft safe and secure, etc.

I'm not educated on, and really don't know where to begin on, this topic...is anyone aware of any literature out there covering this?

See if the FD can pull some of their FEMA and state resources at their disposal to assist with some of it. You don't have to make it into a complete Crash Rescue , but if they can provide you with some of the documentation that is available to them , you may be able to touch on some of the topics.

 

[cavmedic]

See if the FD can pull some of their FEMA and state resources at their disposal to assist with some of it. You don't have to make it into a complete Crash Rescue , but if they can provide you with some of the documentation that is available to them , you may be able to touch on some of the topics.

In addition , the FD is going to want to be a little more educated on types of fuel used and if they are a rescue company , where they are able to cut and pry to extricate etc . Touch on types of electrical systems , voltages and they may want to know typical routing of wiring , fuel lines blah .....

The sad thing is this MAY turn into a bit more than you can personally chew. It might be hard to know when to just say when because no matter what topic you get on , it is going to just snow ball.

 

[Capt. Geoffrey Thorpe]

Well, this has morphed into a session that will include the local fire department and we've decided to include some basics on what---and what not---to do if there is ever an accident or incident at our field. i.e. what the FAA/NTSB do not want disturbed, how/if to make the aircraft safe and secure, etc.

I'm not educated on, and really don't know where to begin on, this topic...is anyone aware of any literature out there covering this?

Invite someone from the FSDO?