more on air use tax & MEDICAL

[Jim Phelps]

I knew after several reply's that the lastest was a April's fool joke. BUT back in the 80's there was a AIR USE TAX . We paid 25$ for the Ercoupe per yr. to the FAA. Heavier airplanes paid more. Yes we really paid to use God's air.  Dad wrote our congressman at that time and found out the law that put it into effect was a amendment to a agriculture farm bill. It was a valid question when I asked if it was still in effect. If it is not , when was it repealed? So I do know from both being a pilot and a farmer that crazy laws do get passed and enforced.   THE  FAR that keeps me from flying as pilot in command is a Med. one. I was diagnosesed as having "Angina Petrous(spelling?)"  The Doc said it just means Chest pains. Because of this diag. it means I would have to get a special issuance Med. So whats the big deal? Will for one thing, I couldn't afford the test's every six months, and for another it is just about impossible to get the test and the results back to the FAA in the time frame they give you. (and than, there is no guarantee that they will issue the lic.) My med.examner had the same condition and he couldn't get it done. I heard of a man in Sterling CO. that gets it done by taking one test right on the heels of the other, I understand he can afford the tests. This was for me 15 yr.s ago. I have not had any pains or have not passed out or even got lightheaded because of this condition, but the FAA say I might drop dead anytime so I can't fly. So SO MIGHT ANY ONE OF YOU. They just kept me from my constitional right's on the grounds of WHAT IF. I Guess I should of flown illegal, but I haven't. I Soloed on my sixteenth birthday (In a Ercoupe) and I was 49 when I had this happen and during the 33 yrs. I flew as pilot in command I never once had anyone ask to see my lic. Someday I might sell my coupe and get a ultralight. I'd rather fly the coupe, no pun intended.   Jim  2749H