With regard to the applicability of EASA Part M to aircraft operated on the basis of a permit to fly this is not the situation now or in the immediate future. The maintenance arrangements for those aircraft remains with the UK CAA and those organisations such as the PFA and BMAA which hold a CAA approval for their respective maintenance systems.
Who knows what may happen in 5 or 10 years time? It is likely that the UK CAA will move its requirements ever closer to the EASA norm. This to avoid having two totally different maintenance regimes in the UK leading to confusion. Not least within the CAA.
What is certain is the threat of political pressure from the EU parliament and the Commision on EASA should there be some disatrous series of high profile accidents involving permit aircraft especially if third parties are killed. Without doubt they will demand that those aircraft, now termed Annexe II types, come under the direct oversight of EASA should maintenance, construction or design factors be present as a major factor in a tragedy.
Exactly the same situation arose in the UK in the early 1980's with microlights where the CAA had elected to remain well clear of these revolutionary and fragile aircraft. Suddenly a number of folk lost their lives in accidents. Questions were asked in the House by MP's representing their grieving constituents and very quickly the CAA were directed to assume responsibility with all the hassle that entailed for the former "free spirits" who were quite happy with the risk factors.
Those who choose not to study history are destined to repeat it.
Prenez garde, messieurs................!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Cheers,
Trapper 69
