Reply #78: I agree with you [View All]

[PacerLJ35]

I don't think it was smart to bring your kid to the JFK tower and let them get on the radio, primarily because the FAA has always been pretty strict about things of that nature. I'm personally not shocked at how the FAA has handled it, but I disagree that they should be fired. Unfortunately, that's usually how the FAA reacts...they typically go all-out during enforcement.

In my opinion, the controllers should be given a verbal and reminded that JFK isn't a place you should let your child play controller. I don't think it was dangerous, myself, but there are just certain things you don't do. I'd let my kids talk on the radio and manipulate the controls of the Piper Cherokee I rent, but I certainly wouldn't let them do that in the C-130s I fly.

Much of my response is directed to those who seem to think this kid talking on the radio would cause airplanes to crash, etc. That risk was probably extremely low.