People ask quite often “how high is a mile?” while keeping a straight face 
Always men though.
I’m afraid that’s how light GA is viewed…
DOnt be afraid I can think of many other past times and professions that are viewed as cynically by members of the public and even those who should know better – it never stopped anyone
The question I am always asked is “what permission do you have to go flying” and “where are you allowed to fly”.
Most people seem to think that you need permission to fly obtained in writing in triplicate days in advance, and are amazed when you tell them you can just get in and start up.
I think that is the most common question I’ve ever been asked as well.
The glamour of a stuck fuel drain valve cannot be overestimated.
Famous quotes:
“Oh, but they’re all falling down all the times, isn’t it very dangerous”
“And you really can just fly everywhere you want ?”
“I’ll never fly with you. I once flew with someone and the fuel went low”
“Ahh, that must be true freedom ! I wish I had learned it”
“Here’s my room number, can you show me how to fly with stick and rudder?”
“Can you and I fly to the Alps for skiing ?”
Seriously. Heard them all. Personally.
I generally associate the pursuit of glamour as a weakness in character, assuming we’re talking about male pilots. Happily I think light aviation has long since left that realm, at least in anything lighter than the larger biz jets. It is a fun activity with enough technical content to be also interesting on that level.
If one intent of flying as a hobby is to attract mates, you’re better off anyway with the ones who appreciate having fun, versus pursuing glamour among their girlfriends
“Here’s my room number, can you show me how to fly with stick and rudder?”
You really got that one? Where??
“Can you and I fly to the Alps for skiing ?”
Well, that one is very possible.
You really got that one? Where??
Ha ! thought you want to know ;) Not in Germany, that much I can reveal…..
