No Aircraft
Flight Crew Private
No Specific Anomaly Occurred All Types
General None Reported / Taken
Environment - Non Weather Related; Company Policy; Human Factors
This report is in response to the FAA's request for the general aviation community to submit reports about any COVID-19 related challenges to flying safely.  The response of flight schools and CFI's to the pandemic situation has varied with individual states; flight schools; and instructors.  Some have taken the risk seriously and applied risk management/risk mitigation actions such as disinfecting aircraft high-touch surfaces and requiring everyone to wear masks when flying.  Others have proceeded with 'business as usual' with little or no actions to address the COVID situation.  While economic factors are strong and important; you can keep a flight school open and take reasonable actions to address the COVID risk to students; instructors; and staff.  The two are not mutually exclusive.  My own local flight school falls in the 'business as usual' category as wearing a mask during flight is 'too inconvenient.'  If you don't like the policy; you can fly elsewhere.  This attitude is problematic for several reasons: a) flying with a mask is a minor inconvenience but does not typically interfere with communications or instruction on a typical GA flight so the benefit outweighs the cost; b) it sends the message that not every client is valued and the business is willing to cut you lose if you have a legitimate health concern; and c) it sends the wrong message about ADM [Aeronautical Decision Making] and risk management.  CFI's deal with risks and risk management on every flight.  COVID-19 is just a new risk to deal with that could impact crew health and safety.  Why should this risk be treated differently than other risks such as inadequate fuel or poor weather?  Analyze and mitigate the risk!  Those who don't take this risk seriously may not take other risks seriously either.  Sounds like the hazardous attitudes of Anti-Authority and Invulnerability.  Aviation and aeronautics are based on science.  When you exceed the critical angle of attack; the wing stalls whether you believe it will or not.  COVID-19 is also based on science; and simple risk mitigation steps are appropriate to help keep everyone safe and flying!
Pilot reported concerns with some flight schools not requiring face mask to be worn during flights.