Tumble_weed,
Sorry, perhaps I didn't make myself clear. I was not referring to ability of RAAF pilots or the quality of their training. I'm ex-RAAF (ATC) and having spent two years at Pearce, saw enough circuits, turnbacks, PFLs and limited panel approaches to have gotten the gist!
My question related purely to how the RAAF (not the individual pilot) manages the licensing issue. Is a CPL (or ATPL) required to operate the equipment? IF so, does Ronnie pay for the guys and gals to acquire the licence? Do they have an exemption?
Most importantly, if they do have an exemption does this apply carte-blanche to
ALL aircraft of the type or just those undertaking RAAF operations?
While I am quite sure that the pilots at 33 and 34 SQN may have their commercial licences, I am equally sure that this is not an operational requirement!
