ok don't remove the stick , It was simply a suggestion that makes the whole operation clear, no chance of the FAA coming down on the pilot and no chance of upsetting the CFIs by giving a little back door instruction. It simply makes the nature of the flight clear for all to see.
apart from that , does the concept make sense ?
In my opinion the FAA does not want people flying experimental aircraft receiving compensation for giving rides including sharing expenses. I feel the FAA’s position is that if someone shares expenses for a ride they should have the protection of a certified aircraft.
They feel and accident statistics back them up that certified aircraft are safer.
It appears to me the FAA feels the public is not sophisticated enough to do risk assessments on the danger involved in flying an experimental aircraft. My experience suggests this is accurate.
In my opinion the FAA feels that a CFI with a LODA for instructing should not be receiving compensation for giving rides in their experimental aircraft.
Ron’s challenge was with a few CFIs who didn’t want him giving rides, not the FAA.
Receiving compensation for rides in an experimental is not an enforcement priority at the three FSDOs I deal with (San Jose, Riverside and Van Nuys). They may react if there is complaint or an accident. I have no idea how other FSDOs feel about this issue.
It is not likely that someone unfamiliar with the FARs will come up with a way to break the rules that the FAA has not thought of.
There are specific requirements for giving a ride in any aircraft and more for experimental aircraft even when compensation is not involved. How to operate he seat belts must be explained, emergency procedures should be gone over and in an experimental the experimental nature of the aircraft must be explained. I would suggest that anyone giving rides be familiar with these rules.
I feel it is important to explain the extra risk involved compared to flying in an airline. It is my observation that most people have no idea how to access the risks in aviation and they are probably still confused after I do my best to explain it to them.
Thank you, Vance