Beaurocracy by an Ex beaurocrat
Hi Lunchmaster,
I'm very sorry to hear about the cockup. So far as I can see, there is nothing else you can do about it that you are'nt already doing, i.e. sourcing duplicates of the necessary docs and getting them off in the post asap.
However, speaking as an ex local governent officer, for the benefit of any future applications you make, or those of anyone else reading this post, especially applications to departments of central government. (That is not only to the CAA but to DES, DWP or any other government department or agency). Please learn one lesson. None of them can be trusted with papers sent in to them. ('Lost in the post' my a**e).
Hence, first always include a 'list of enclosures' with your application form, listing the things included with it, and a covering letter asking the recipient to check the contents of your envelope against the list and advise you immediately if there are any discrepancies.
Secondly, and most importantly, send all letters by recorded delivery and attach the receipt for postage to your copies of the material sent and keep them in a safe place until the transaction is completed.
This way, if there should be a cock up, you have hard evidence that it is their cock up, not yours, and they will then be honour bound to sort out the mess with as little trouble to you as possible. Furthermore, if things don't improve, you also have hard evidence to pass on to the Parliamentary Commissioner for Administration (the Ombudsman).
This is how I have always done it and on occasion it has paid rich dividends.
Best of luck: enjoy your flying, when you finally get to do it.
Broomstick