Licence Conversion to JAA

[FlyBoyFryer]

US to UK license/rating conversions...

Hi Everyone,

Although I've already had a look through various forums and discussion places, there doesn't seem to be any one/central location for concise, easily disseminated information relating to converting a USA FAA-issued PPL/CPL/IR/Multi Rating to the UK equivalent.

In saying this, I'm fully aware that the British CAA's website does contain most, if not all, the information I require (specifically, the LASOR’s section - http://www.caa.co.uk/default.aspx?categoryid=175&pagetype=68&groupid=780) ... it's just not the easiest to read and I’m certain, if not hoping, that some of you guys have had the dubious pleasure of trying to establish what’s involved in this type matter.

For background purposes then:

1. I currently hold a FAA issued ASEL PPL
2. Am about to move to the USA on a J-1 visa in order to complete further training such that I obtain my CPL, IR and Multi-Engine ratings
3. I’ll then be embarking on my CFI, CFII and MEI training courses
4. Set to work as an instructor for the flight school for a while
5. Then set to return to the UK around July ‘08
6. Work as a commercial pilot with an instrument, multi-engine and instructor ratings in and around Southern Scotland
7. Specifically interested in the conversion process necessary in order to ensure that I have point 6 covered!!
8. Keep wondering:
ü Is this the best way to complete the flight training I desire (i.e. doing it in the US)
ü How truly interchangeable/compatible are the UK and US issued licenses?
ü IS the USA a member of the JAA states?
ü Does JAR-Compliant mean anything for real in terms of converting to the UK system after my training has been completed?
ü I know I can’t afford to do the same amount of courses/training in the UK for the same amount of money but is that reason enough?
ü How many other pilots out there like me have gone battled with the same dilemma and/or situation?

Thanks in advance and hope to hear from you all,

Justin.


I’m aware that most of you guys know exactly what the abbreviations I’ve used throughout this post stand for, but just to avoid any confusion:
FAA – Federal Aviation Authority/Administration
CAA – British Civil Aviation Authority
ASEL – Aircraft Single Engine Land
PPL – Private Pilot License
CPL – Commercial Pilot License
IR – Instrument Rating
CFI – Certified Flight Instructor
CFII – Certified Flight Instructor for Instrument
MEI – Multi Engine Instructor