One of the great debates in the in the civilian ex military jet market is what exactly is the legislation regarding use and operation of ejection seats. It would seem that there are no hard and fast rules, and once the aircraft has a certificate announcing its airworthiness the owner can make modifications to the seats to render them non functioning.
Somewhat mystified by these statements
There is no "debate" with those who actually fly and operate the aircraft, nor need it be for anyone who does not - just read CAP 632
Ejection seats kept live are a must in my humble opinion
A valid opinion, but not one I agree with. There are risks to both sides of the argument - if you cannot accept risks, don't fly! In some areas the Live seats make things easier, in others areas harder and v-v etc.
The second hand info I have is that the aircraft was inverted when the engine stopped (not a good time to use a bang seat)
Another curious post
Nobody "ejects" as and when the engine fails except in critical periods of flight - generally immediately after takeoff / prior landing. Inverted @ 2000' seems to me plenty of energy to fly the aircraft (roll upright, glide speed, IAs), diagnose the emergency, and look after yourself. It is, IMHO,
not the time to always determine whether to eject or force land - that decision should have been made "in principle" before takeoff, and in many ways when the decision was made to fit live or disabled seats.
Just my 2ps worth...
NoD