Great post Genghis,
I just want to pick up on a few points.... first off, I agree that BMAA or PFA permit costs are broadly the same, but I would point out that the PFA system allows owners to fly their own permit renewal flight test with an obvious small cost saving. (unless like me you own several aircraft!)
Secondly, I do disagree the costs are the same for similar size and performance aircraft here's an example:
Kingy's Scooter
Ok, this aircraft has a max AUW of 318KG but it is group 'A' not a micro. It was hand built by a craftsman over a period of 22years. It flies beautifully, cruises at 75mph and uses 12Lph mogas. It takes off and lands in less than 200m. Permit costs are £85pa, fuel costs about a tenner per hour.
My point I am trying to make that is this aircraft is a
work of art compared to the average micro. It was crafted over many thousands of hours from plans, It out performs 70% of microlites and costs the same or slightly less to operate. Surely, all things being equal, this aircraft should be worth more than an average micro...? What £6,8K?? No, amazingly I bought if for
£1500!! with a new permit and only 40hrs TT.
Now why is this? Well, the only reason is that the average PPL doesn't know about the PFA system and the Micro people can't fly it! One thing is for sure, if and when I come to advertise it, I'll get many, many calls asking if it is a microlite....
Best
Kingy