vigi -
No 1179 for you so long as you restrict yourself to single-pilot aeroplanes. To fly any other type in the class (e.g. a PA31 Navajo) you will require differences training, conducted by a FI/CRI and recorded in your logbook.
The matter of performance exams during the changeover to full JAA compliance has not, so far as I can discover, yet been resolved. Under JAA, all single-pilot aeroplanes are in performance group B. The general areas of performance will be examined in the CPL/ATP ground examinations and the type specific calculations will be included in type/class rating skill tests.
Beware of your statement concerning Perf E covering the Seneca. The Seneca 2 is in performance group C and, whilst you may have opened a licence with the Seneca 2 and Perf E, you may not fly the aircraft for the purposes of aerial work or public transport until you have passed Perf C. In general terms, you must have passed the appropriate performance examination for any type or variant which you fly for hire or reward.
The CAA will not let you get your class ratings "at PPL prices without the need for the 1179". In order to acquire a class rating one must pass a Class Rating Skill Test, more complex than the current 1179. The skill test for the SE Piston (Land) rating will be swept up in the new PPL Skill Test (longer and more complex than the CPL Skill Test). The skill test for a ME Piston (Land) rating will have to be taken separately and, of course, will cost!
Tha gets owt fer nowt tha knows.
[This message has been edited by watford (edited 13 July 1999).]