Federal Licensing Agency for Pilots

When aviation made the leap from a realm of experimentation to an institution of modern travel, Usland started a national registry of pilots similar to that of auto drivers, to ensure that those behind the stick had the proper qualifications for safe flying. The Federal Licensing Agency for Pilots — aka F.L.A.P. — is where civilians sign up for their learner's permits and, after training, obtain full pilot certification.

F.L.A.P. testing centers exist in every major city; many of them adjoin the water, if possible, so that seaplanes may park outside. Licensing steps and requirements include a vision screening, written exam, and a flying test taken with an examining officer such as Ralph "Love to Flunk 'Em" Throgmorton (expert on the A-B-C's of aviation).