There is a general misnomer concerning the ‘European’ nature of the JAA. It is a lose ( and fractious ) amalgamation of national authorities operating under an ‘emperors new clothes’ mandate from Brussels.
The European Union is, at this very moment, preparing to correct the dubious legitimacy of the JAA by establishing it’s own pan-European aviation authority. A plan that would require ( I believe ) a referendum in every member state...I know which way I’d be voting!
The prospect of a three tier Euro authority, JAA, EAA and Eurocontrol just doesn’t bear contemplation.
If there is doubt in anybody’s mind about the disaster that JAA-FCL is, they should consider the position of aviation in Ireland.
I have a JAA PPL issued by the Irish Aviation Authority. This piece of paper looks, feels, and smells like a JAA licence...but it’s not!. The Irish authority is not sanctioned or authorised in any way to issue licences on behalf of the JAA.
If the letter of the law was adhered to, my next flight as PIC to the U.K. or mainland Europe could result in the grounding of my aircraft and/or a nasty prosecution for flying without a valid licence.
2W