We intend to have a safer operation this year than any other year. This needs to be our goal every year. Statistics show that winching is safer than towing. Had Karl used a winch to lauch his glider, he would have been hundres of feet in the air before his incident.
Our private ship owners have not used the winch. I hope to this summer. However, our students have used it extensively two years ago. Last year was a fluke. Students who use the winch for pattern tow do many more landings before they solo than a student who only uses a tow plane. This makes the student a safer pilot.
If we were desperate I’d understand why the board would consider selling the winch or a glider, but our club is not short of cash. We have plenty coming in from dues and fight fees. Our debt is approaching an all time low – winch is paid off, the mower and field not will be paid off this year. The money which went to those items can be re-directed into the engine fund withoug sacraficing safety, nor selling the winch or a glider.
We need to figure out how to better use the winch, not sell it. I’m willing to be the “Winch Cooridnator” ins 2021.
Art