Impinger
L1A2 - Don't be so negative. Stn Cdrs (or budget holders) have always been allowed to waive all charges if the event has a 'charitable' purpose or where there is benefit to Defence. The definition of charitable, and indeed benefit, in this context can be enormously ambiguous and so long as you don't ask anyone the question it is very unlikely that anyone will ask you to justify your waiver. Where we do run into trouble is over the big events like Airshows where there is a very obvious charging mechanism - so top tip: keep it small and off the radar - and of course have loads of fun while doing good work
I'm afraid your wrong there. The Stn Cdr does not have the authority to waive charges - it would appear that the concept of mission command doesn't apply in this regard (and too many others). The charges are set by Defence Estates and a Station needs to apply to HQ Air (Corporate Governance IIRC) for either waiver or an abatement . The relevent JSP (sorry can't remember the number - even I'm not that blunt) makes it clear that charities including Service charities are not a special case and should be charged accordingly. The justification for the waiver (normally meeting the Engagement Strategy) is heavily scrutinised.