I've forgotten the history of why it was deemed acceptable to reduce the requisite number of hours for a CPL from 700 hrs to 200 hrs.
Whether the airlines 'saw the JAA coming' or whether this situation was never envisaged due to the (unexpected) rise in the volume of low cost air transport I suppose no one really knows.
It is hardly surprising that the low cost operators have taken advantage of the situation, just as they have by exploiting CAP 371.
It would be interesting to hear a reasoned argument for improved air safety against the reduction in average flying hours that most airlines must now incur. That is a sensible, balanced argument as opposed to hype and spin from 'notables' and the
PR Department.
Funny how when it comes to flying hours the airlines go for the lowest common denominator, but when it comes to working hours they go for the highest.
KR
FOK