When NBC's Lauer asked if a pilot has to present airman and medical certificates before flying, Boyer drew the analogy that drivers don't have to show a license every time they drive. He then contrasted that with times when airman credentials are checked. Boyer cited random FAA ramp checks of pilot certificates and the discipline imposed by the insurance industry, which result in FBOs requiring documents prior to initial aircraft rental. For aircraft owners, he pointed to insurance industry checks prior to issuing hull or liability insurance. This really is an honor system that works.
Pilots are a very special breed of people and they want to uphold the creed among themselves.
Boyer ended the interview by publicly expressing the association's sympathies to John Denver's family and friends in order to emphasize the tragedy of his loss, and not the controversy over his medical status. John Denver had been an AOPA member since 1968.