Fair enough Conflict. I think my problem is that I've flown a few different types here and there, and just can't get my head round why any small, simple flying machine needs a 'Type Rating'. To me, if its got a 'Type Rating' its big (heavier than 5,700kg) and complicated. What on Earth does the procedure for being granted a 'Type Rating' for something as simple as a K-8 glider actually entail? Many many years ago, the K-8 was the first single-seat sailplane I ever flew. If I'm reading the NZ rules right, I'd have needed to be 'Type Rated' in the -8 before going solo - but its a single-seater. In NZ, are you really granted a 'Type Rating' to fly something, before you've ever flown it?
I'm not trying to be funny - am genuinely curious.
Last edited by Dave Unwin; 30th March 2007 at 07:55.