R.I.P. cheap flying on a certified aircraft thanks to EASA.
1) Own a simple certified light aircraft.
2) Base it at an airfield that allows maintenance in the hangars.
3) Keep it on the French register and sign for your own maintenance.
4) Be on friendly terms with local M3 engineers so as to hire their tools.
5) Fly it to France every three years to renew the C of A.
6) Have extensive engineering experience so you know what needs doing.
Not any more:
Now I have to pay a CAMO to check the paperwork, and issue an ARC.
Now I have to pay a part F organisation to oversign my work, or insist on doing it themselves.
Now the only DIY allowed is the pathetic list in appendix VIII. I can't touch anything 'safety critical' like flying controls, engine overhaul, instrumentation, etc. It pi****S me off and the only options are to sell or go illigit.
