DEBATE OVER DEFINING ‘LIGHT

Editor, The Sun:

An Open Letter to Steve Fults, Manager Wakulla Airport

Steve:

Yes, it is understood that the definition of light aircraft has been changed to 12,500lbs, by whomever and for whatever reason,… insurance classification perhaps?
As it pertains to the 1963 deed from (Fenton) Jones to Wakulla (for the land to be used as an airport), the current day definition is immaterial.
That is, changes over time should not be confused with the instant subject. Contracts are entered into and enforced based upon meetings of the minds. That which prevails in the Jones to Wakulla deed was the meeting of the minds at the time of its execution.
• Light aircraft was specified in the 1963 deed,
• Light aircraft as of 1963 was 6,000 pounds as has been clearly defined in the Encyclopedia of Aviation and by The George Smathers Library of the University of Florida,
• Heirs of Fenton Jones have ratified that understanding.
You asked a decade ago if we could come up with something that would be acceptable to each. After all of the wasted time, effort, money and most regretfully relationships, the 6,000lb limitation remains the answer.
Newer aircraft are being manufactured lighter and to be more efficient,… just as are automobiles. Larger aircraft under the 6,000lb threshold will likely be using the airport in full compliance with the spirit and letter of the land grant from Jones to Wakulla,… fine!
Let’s move-on in harmony at the 6,000lb limitation.

Jim
 
L. James Parham
Ochlockonee Bay