There is much talk about hours and standards, but at the end of the day the criteria for a PPL Skill Test is: is the candidate "SAFE"
It appears to take about 55 hours to train an average candidate to a Safe level in the UK and interestingly, about 75 hours in North America (excluding the overseas UK schools)
Regardless of what course you do, it will surely take the same time to train a pilot to this "Safe" standard? The standard really cannot be lowered.
A JAA PPL student is eligible to take the Skill Test after 35 hours (not 45), i.e when all the "training" has been completed (25 hours dual + 10 hours solo) but nobody achieves it.
The NPPL Medical offers many the chance to fly who cannot meet JAA standards. Surely it would be much simpler to have a UK limited medical with an existing PPL and limit the holder to UK airspace.
Meanwhile, the argument will rage mainly because there are those with a vested financial interest who don't want to lose out; and those with a financial interest in making a fast buck at the expence of others. The poor student is of no consequence, but as sure as eggs are eggs, Mr Average will not crack it in less than 55 hours. So who is fooling who? there will be no saving.
Last edited by Noggin; 25th April 2002 at 07:44.