The Paris Convention of 1919 produced the International Commission of Air Navigation (ICAN), but it was not signed by the United States, Russia or many other countries after World War I. Spain declined to sign because of Article 34, which related to the uneven treatment of the signatory parties (and for political reasons--Iberia would soon withdrew from the League of Nations after its permanent seat was rejected).
Spain had broad holding in the Americas and, as a result of rapid aviation activity and growth, decided to initiate its own aviation conference to counter the Paris Convention. To the Spanish convention were invited all Latin American and Caribbean states and Portugal. In October of 1926, the countries met in Madrid for the Ibero-American Conference.
The conference took into account equal voting rights and the right of the contracting states to permit independent flights above its territory of non-contracting State's aircraft. Twenty-one Spanish-origin European and American States signed the Convenio Ibero Americano de Navegacion Aerea on November 1, 1926 (it was also called the Madrid Convention). The wording of the Ibero-American Convention was essentially identical to the Paris Convention.
The only real difference between the two conventions was the elimination of the discriminatory voting rights of the signatory States. Of the twenty-one States that signed the agreement, only five (Spain, Portugal, Dominican Republic, Costa Rica and Mexico) submitted the instrument for ratification. Because of this lack of interest, the undeveloped nature of long-range aircraft to tie together Spain and Latin America, civil war in Spain, and the Havana Convention of 1928, this Convention has limited impact on the aviation world. As a result, this second alternative was no longer needed and faded into history.
Sunday, December 5, 2010
Thursday, December 2, 2010
Send the Elevator Back Down
Last night, I was again privileged to attend a Wake Forest function featuring Dr. Hatch, the President of the University, and Provost Jill Tiefenthaler; they both always speak eloquently, take questions, and then mingle after words. It was a well attended event at the Atlanta History Center's Overlook Ballroom and the theme was "Sustaining a Tradition of Opportunity: Why college costs so much and why Wake Forest is worth it."
To say that I am proud of Wake and its people is an understatement. My Alma mater was a powerful force in the shaping of my life. I continue to reap the seeds that were planted there so many years ago; as those seeds germinate, new fruit magically appears.
At the end of the evening, a video was presented that highlighted testimonials of Wake graduates. It was a feel-good movie that so often inspires us and makes us proud. Within that movie was a statement by one graduate that caught my attention and made me reflect. He said, and I am paraphrasing in part, that "no matter the amount of success that we achieve in life or how high we climb, we have an obligation to send the elevator back down to those less fortunate." Send the elevator back down was new fruit in my opinion!
We could all benefit as a society from that statement--send the elevator back down to help bring up those that are less fortunate but willing to give their lives a better shot if given the opportunity. We all know people who are trying hard to better themselves, who want more, and have the God-given abilities to achieve higher goals. But, for economic or physical reasons, they are stuck on the lower floors.
If you have the ability today, or especially during this holiday season, join me in reflection and giving. Help those out that want a better station in life. It doesn't only have to be monetary help it can be inspirational. To inspire a mind with what you know and have learned can make for a better world; to lend a hand to the physically challenged can bring smiles that will warm your heart. Send the elevator down and bring it back with rewards. Once the seeds are planted, they will continue to grow--I can attest to that.
To say that I am proud of Wake and its people is an understatement. My Alma mater was a powerful force in the shaping of my life. I continue to reap the seeds that were planted there so many years ago; as those seeds germinate, new fruit magically appears.
At the end of the evening, a video was presented that highlighted testimonials of Wake graduates. It was a feel-good movie that so often inspires us and makes us proud. Within that movie was a statement by one graduate that caught my attention and made me reflect. He said, and I am paraphrasing in part, that "no matter the amount of success that we achieve in life or how high we climb, we have an obligation to send the elevator back down to those less fortunate." Send the elevator back down was new fruit in my opinion!
We could all benefit as a society from that statement--send the elevator back down to help bring up those that are less fortunate but willing to give their lives a better shot if given the opportunity. We all know people who are trying hard to better themselves, who want more, and have the God-given abilities to achieve higher goals. But, for economic or physical reasons, they are stuck on the lower floors.
If you have the ability today, or especially during this holiday season, join me in reflection and giving. Help those out that want a better station in life. It doesn't only have to be monetary help it can be inspirational. To inspire a mind with what you know and have learned can make for a better world; to lend a hand to the physically challenged can bring smiles that will warm your heart. Send the elevator down and bring it back with rewards. Once the seeds are planted, they will continue to grow--I can attest to that.
Sunday, November 28, 2010
Starting Point of Airline Regulation--A Historical Look at International Air Law
Since the beginning of flight, property owners have argued over the ownership of the space above their land. Two theories of sovereignty have existed and were discussed by early jurist. One side believed property owners had no rights to the space above their land and the other side believed that individuals had exclusive sovereignty. These issues were advanced by international attention shortly after the Wright brothers' first flight.
Airline regulation started after WWI. The new uses of the airplane, not only for war but for transportation of goods and people, demanded regulation. During the Paris Peace Conference of 1919 that ended the War, a French Under-Secretary of State suggested that aviation matters also be taken up during the discussions. His suggestion was favorably received by the delegates.
An Aeronautical Commission was formed and drew up regulation of aerial navigation; this charter was signed by 27 States on 13 October 1919. This agreement consisted of 43 articles that dealt with all technical, operational and organizational aspects of civil aviation. To monitor the regulations, the International Commission for Air Navigation (ICAN, and the predecessor of ICAO) was formed.
ICAN was not the first and only organization formed during those early aviation years to regulate the use of the airplane. The Fédération Aéronautique Internationale had been around since 1905 to oversee private aviation and air touring. The International Chamber of Commerce, which was created to express the opinion of the business world, had a transport group that also discussed aeronautical questions. And, in 1919, six European airlines founded the International Air Traffic Association (IATA) to help airlines standardize their paperwork and passenger tickets and also help airlines compare technical procedures.
ICAN, being the largest organization and under the direction of The League of Nations, oversaw the recognition that each country has full and absolute sovereignty over the air above its territories and waters. With these rights, a country can deny entry and regulate foreign flights into their airspace. Also a part of the provisions were the requirements of airworthiness, pilot license, rules of the air, the right of flight across foreign territory, and a prohibition of the transportation of arms, explosives and photographic equipment by aircraft.
Airline regulation started after WWI. The new uses of the airplane, not only for war but for transportation of goods and people, demanded regulation. During the Paris Peace Conference of 1919 that ended the War, a French Under-Secretary of State suggested that aviation matters also be taken up during the discussions. His suggestion was favorably received by the delegates.
An Aeronautical Commission was formed and drew up regulation of aerial navigation; this charter was signed by 27 States on 13 October 1919. This agreement consisted of 43 articles that dealt with all technical, operational and organizational aspects of civil aviation. To monitor the regulations, the International Commission for Air Navigation (ICAN, and the predecessor of ICAO) was formed.
ICAN was not the first and only organization formed during those early aviation years to regulate the use of the airplane. The Fédération Aéronautique Internationale had been around since 1905 to oversee private aviation and air touring. The International Chamber of Commerce, which was created to express the opinion of the business world, had a transport group that also discussed aeronautical questions. And, in 1919, six European airlines founded the International Air Traffic Association (IATA) to help airlines standardize their paperwork and passenger tickets and also help airlines compare technical procedures.
ICAN, being the largest organization and under the direction of The League of Nations, oversaw the recognition that each country has full and absolute sovereignty over the air above its territories and waters. With these rights, a country can deny entry and regulate foreign flights into their airspace. Also a part of the provisions were the requirements of airworthiness, pilot license, rules of the air, the right of flight across foreign territory, and a prohibition of the transportation of arms, explosives and photographic equipment by aircraft.
Thursday, June 24, 2010
“If it is not fun, you’re not doing it right.”
“If it is not fun, you’re not doing it right.” Fran Tarkenton (Pro football Hall of Famer)
Today, I am heading out to Coeur d’Alene, Idaho to participate in my second full Ironman event. This event consists of a 2.4 mile run, then a 112 mile bike ride followed by a 26.2 mile run. If all goes as planned, I hope to accomplish it all in under thirteen hours. It is a full day of exercising and fun to say the least.
The months of training are behind me; in fact, I started tapering toward the race several weeks ago. I am in the “easy” phase now where I just have to stay limber, hydrated, and mentally prepared. The mental preparation is just as important as the physical training. In fact, I find the mental prep the most demanding.
Over the years, I have been defeated by my mind faster than by my body. I have found that we often struggle with ourselves mentally to the point we give up. It takes great discipline, at least for me, to keep that from happening. To stay focused on a goal, to coach your body into activity when it wants to quit, and to put out the effort is something Ironman has taught me. It is possible to accomplish great things if you put your mind to it.
I have found that the answer to accomplishment and fun often lies between my own ears; outside sources are temporary and fleeting. The energizing chemicals that lie within your body are far more powerful than any alcohol or drug you can consume. Physical activity provides natural biochemical surges of energy that can motivate and inspire. I have not found an external substance that will provide lasting fun or relief.
As I spent hours and hours in the pool, on the bike, and running, it became apparent to me that what I often sought outside of myself to bring happiness or freedom was false. The “fun” offered by the source was not inherent to that source; it was not permanent and did not add to my higher calling. I discovered that fun and excitement was provided by the synergy of my own mind and body; the internal fulfillment was lasting and could be repeated anytime.
A few of the “fun” highlights of my life have all involved inner sources; among other things, my carrier landings, whitewater kayaking, parachuting, and triathlons have given me a happiness nothing else was able to give me. They involved inner strength and commitment to stay focused and on course. Last November, hearing announcer Mike Reilly at Ironman Arizona say “Glenn Cook, you are an Ironman” as I crossed the finish line was one of the most fun. It was powerful and so satisfying and so lasting that I seek it out again.
So, I have made a commitment to myself to find natural highs to stay motivated. I continue to swim, bike, and run to enhance my own being. I hope you join me in that quest; please dance, sing, hug, run or just get off the couch to find happiness; you will not find it with alcohol or drugs. And, you don’t have to go far or spend money to find it--it lies within your mind and heart.
Today, I am heading out to Coeur d’Alene, Idaho to participate in my second full Ironman event. This event consists of a 2.4 mile run, then a 112 mile bike ride followed by a 26.2 mile run. If all goes as planned, I hope to accomplish it all in under thirteen hours. It is a full day of exercising and fun to say the least.
The months of training are behind me; in fact, I started tapering toward the race several weeks ago. I am in the “easy” phase now where I just have to stay limber, hydrated, and mentally prepared. The mental preparation is just as important as the physical training. In fact, I find the mental prep the most demanding.
Over the years, I have been defeated by my mind faster than by my body. I have found that we often struggle with ourselves mentally to the point we give up. It takes great discipline, at least for me, to keep that from happening. To stay focused on a goal, to coach your body into activity when it wants to quit, and to put out the effort is something Ironman has taught me. It is possible to accomplish great things if you put your mind to it.
I have found that the answer to accomplishment and fun often lies between my own ears; outside sources are temporary and fleeting. The energizing chemicals that lie within your body are far more powerful than any alcohol or drug you can consume. Physical activity provides natural biochemical surges of energy that can motivate and inspire. I have not found an external substance that will provide lasting fun or relief.
As I spent hours and hours in the pool, on the bike, and running, it became apparent to me that what I often sought outside of myself to bring happiness or freedom was false. The “fun” offered by the source was not inherent to that source; it was not permanent and did not add to my higher calling. I discovered that fun and excitement was provided by the synergy of my own mind and body; the internal fulfillment was lasting and could be repeated anytime.
A few of the “fun” highlights of my life have all involved inner sources; among other things, my carrier landings, whitewater kayaking, parachuting, and triathlons have given me a happiness nothing else was able to give me. They involved inner strength and commitment to stay focused and on course. Last November, hearing announcer Mike Reilly at Ironman Arizona say “Glenn Cook, you are an Ironman” as I crossed the finish line was one of the most fun. It was powerful and so satisfying and so lasting that I seek it out again.
So, I have made a commitment to myself to find natural highs to stay motivated. I continue to swim, bike, and run to enhance my own being. I hope you join me in that quest; please dance, sing, hug, run or just get off the couch to find happiness; you will not find it with alcohol or drugs. And, you don’t have to go far or spend money to find it--it lies within your mind and heart.
Sunday, April 11, 2010
Welcome
I am starting this blog as an attempt to share with you my adventures in life. I hope to write about seeking out the true, excellent and praiseworthy. There is a lot of that to share.
As I travel the world as an international airline Captain, I am exposed to many things that others find interesting. As a lawyer, I see problems that need just solutions. As an Ironman triathlete, I work to improve myself physically and mentally.
Through the travel, legal and physical aspects of my life, I will share with you what I have learned. Hopefully, together, we can find purposeful meaning in life that seeks all that is good.
As I travel the world as an international airline Captain, I am exposed to many things that others find interesting. As a lawyer, I see problems that need just solutions. As an Ironman triathlete, I work to improve myself physically and mentally.
Through the travel, legal and physical aspects of my life, I will share with you what I have learned. Hopefully, together, we can find purposeful meaning in life that seeks all that is good.
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