Folks I've disputed this PFA takeover of BMAA. I asked Graham today and this was his response. I have his permission to post it here.
Nigel
I'm not sure where this information is coming from, but it is factually
incorrect. To save time I will answer in bullet point fashion:-
1) I, nor anyone else to my knowledge, has suggested to the BMAA that we are
seeking to take over Type approved microlights.
2) I have spoken to Chris Finnigan and discussed the point that Factory
Built, ie Type approved microlights, that are derived from homebuilt types
that the PFA has approved would, from a safety point of view, be better
looked after by the PFA. If you take the Eurostar as an example, when Nigel
Beale applied for approval as a homebuilt we spent some man months reviewing
the design submission and asked for fairly major changes to be made knowing
that it was going to be sold in large numbers. As a Type approved microlight
the CAA, on the back of our work, have issued the Type Approval and the BMAA
are now responsible for it. If, or when there is a problem in the future
with a type approved Eurostar will we stand back and say " Your problem" to
the BMAA? Of course not. Just as with the shadow problems currently we will
sort them out.
3) We currently have a gentlemens agreement with the BMAA, that if an
aircraft is approved by the PFA as a homebuilt then we will look after all
future aircraft of that type and if an aircraft is cleared by the BMAA then
they look after future aircraft of that type.
4) We are suggesting, and it is only a suggestion, that we should extend
this gentlemens agreement to factory built versions of homebuilt types.
5) Far from starting a war, I am trying to suggest a way forward that will
prevent a war. With all the problems of EASA, and don't forget although
microlights are exempted under Annex 2 pilot licensing and operations
affecting the BMAA are a threat, Eurocontrol with it's one sky initiative
and next years mandatory insurance issues we must not fight.
6) If the person who has written this cares to talk to Chris at the BMAA he
will back this up.
7) I would like to know who it is that claims to be an EC member and has
suggested the BMAA extend their approvals, as this certainly would start a
war.
Graham