October 15, 2007 Pilot Fired Fighting Aviophobia

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By Glenn Pew, News Writer, Editor

A pilot previously made famous for stripping to his underwear to protest airport security rules has now been fired from MyTravel Airways after allowing a soccer player to fly as a passenger in the flight deck jump seat. Captain Pablo Mason has a (relatively) popular following in the U.K. for his efforts to cure hundreds of passengers of their fear of flying. Mason acknowledged that he may have broken a rule by using the jumpseat, but did not admit to being aware of the rule. He told the Times Online, "I don't accept that I compromised safety, prejudiced the good name of MyTravel or neglected my duty." Mason added, "Rules are for the guidance of wise men and the obedience of fools."

Passengers touched by their positive experiences with Mason have spoken up on his behalf.