[QUOTE}
What's the issue here? I suspect it comes from some disgruntled CPL's who are struggling for work that think that is a job they could have.[/QUOTE]
Well, to the extent that this thread is any longer to do with my original query, that's incorrect. It's to do with my wish to feel confident in the ability (and that there's effective and regulatory monitoring) of a pilot I've never met, before I wave goodbye to my child in a light aircraft. After reading the advice gratefully received, I don't so I won't. As explained, my concern was heightened by recent events in Europe where the pilot, the CAA & FAA all clearly failed to protect poor Mr Sala, which set me wondering whether the same sad story could happen here, in particular in the context of "private" flights where money has changed hands.