Thanks for the support Mowgli. I think allowing VAT on fuel to be claimed back on training flights is a good idea. We all know that most of the cost of all petroleum products is going into the Chancellors money chest - and we get very very little back in return.
I went to California to do my PPL, simply because even when taking into account getting flights and accomodation, it's alot cheaper. This deprives the UK flying clubs of business and given the numbers that are doing this, means less work for Instructors. Which actually means less money in the Chancellors coffers doesnt it! And this is a Chancellor who when on the Concorde which suffered an engine failure in the cruise last month was quoted as saying "I was impressed with the professionalism of the pilots".
But there are many other issues which those in "Student Pilot Union" post have talked about. Others include the possibility of the Government paying for ATPL theoretical courses. I read in a magazine a Dutch pilot can claim the cost of training to get his ATPL back against tax over a period of eight years. All things like need to be addressed, Europe is not the level playing field it should be.
Interesting you should mention writing to your MP because I was doing thinking of doing the same, but unfortunately my MP is not in the ruling party. If you would like to contact me so that perhaps we can make the same points, you can e-mail me at
[email protected]