“Actually we don't have a very active PPL fraternity at all in this country.”
Other than the States and Canada - tell me a country with a more active GA fleet?
“Just because an ATPL has thousands of hours doesn't mean that they don't make mistakes or are still learning.”
In fact indirectly that was the point I sought to make. If ATPLs with 1,000s of hours make mistakes, like accidental calls on guard, have a bit of patience with PPLs who neither have the hours or the kit to reduce their workload.
“If you think a bi-ennial check ride keeps people safe, then you are sadly mistaken. It is nothing but a very quick snapshot that most of the time doesn't even touch on navigation skills.”
I accept your point although I think that if this problem is as bad as made out instructors could include some navigation work in the check ride.
“If you have any proof that this is not the case I would be interested to see the figures.”
Agreed and I was hasty in making this assertion. It would be very interesting to know the background of all these pilots who are so frequently getting lost.