Annex 6 Part II only recommends the carriage of lifejackets for a flight in a single-engined landplane over water beyond gliding distance from the shore. It requires them on an extended flight over water (> 50 nm or 30 min from land).
Does anybody know the rules that apply? Is it at the dicretion of the PIC? Does JAR OPS apply to private flights commanded by PPL?
Annex 6 is the minimum requirement for an international GA flight. The state of registration of the aircraft may impose stricter requirements, as does the UK -- note the UK requirement applies to twins as well.
JAR-OPS does not apply to private flights. EASA OPS, coming in 2012 will do so, and will mandate the carriage of lifejackets for a flight in a single-engined landplane over water beyond gliding distance from the shore.