So we may be slowly being replaced by RMA techs but not by BMA techs according to the latest Tech News bulletin.
As from the 1st June 2001 BMA holders may not:
a) carry out, detailed & special detailed inspections.
b) perform engine ground running.
c) issue a CRS
d) certify for mods & sp/chks.
e) certify either part of a dupe insp.
f) certify for boroscope insps.
g) certify for function & operational checks of a/c systems except cabin equip.
h) certify final clearances.
This list would appear to suggest that currently , BMA holders are authorised to carry out all the above items but for some strange reason the Quality Dept. have included 6 items which BMA holders have never been authorised to do prior to the 1st June deadline anyway. The only differences I can see is the removal of the Dupe insp & funct/op check privileges.
The "World's favorite" BMA technicians who are paid very well compared to other airlines now have a almost worthless qualification thanks to the introduction of JAR66 and now the LAEs are to be shafted again & given the extra privileges of the RMA/BMA for no reward.
The Unions must be laughing their nuts off.