There is a pdf on the
EASA website that - in part - outlines some ideas re
simplification (yes, really!) of licensing. OK, I believe it when I see it, but there was a recent thread on here regarding just that with respect to the IR. Below is a quote from the EASA dcument. Sounds promising.....
Pilot licensing:
Create a European private pilot licence issued by Authorities or assessment bodies:
covering the full scope of aircraft other founded on a stepwise approach and on competence based training.
This licence would be built around a basic common licence to which ratings for different categories of aircraft,
operations and specific authorisations would be attached, including simplified instrument rating and instructor
rating. No arbitrary restrictions on access to airspace and airports
built into the licensing rule.Medical requirements based on risk assessment and
consideration to allowing general practitioners to issue medical certificates based for example on an assessment
following a self-declaration signed by the pilot. ‘Commercial’ flying schools should have the possibility to
train to RPPL. Finally a bridge with the standard FCL-PPL should be
established.