The C of A changed to EASA from Sept 2004. As of Sept 2007 all EASA C of A will be valid for the lifetime of the aircraft and is required to be carried in the aircraft on every flight, like the FAA system. In the interim period C of A have been issued for lesser periods for admin reasons. Your existing C of A was deemed to be EASA equivalent after Sept 2004.
Whopity,
Sorry if I have my "thick" head on this morning, but are you saying that once I have acquired a shiny new EASA CofA (which I guess will be next year at this time) I won't ever have to go through the process of getting another one (for this aircraft) - ever ? No more stupid £600+ cheques to the CAA every three years ?
Sounds too good to be true !
FF