Well I have an accountant that would provide me some kind of reference, but he will not be able to provide character reference with regards to my work ethics etc.
I also have flight instructors from past and present, some now airline pilots, others instructors and teachers from ATPL's courses. However many times it requires references from people I know more then 5 years.
Also what would such a reference letter contain?
If I have been in a work situation, it would not be a problem. I am actually working in my own Limited company, where I am the owner, in a way I could have my Secretary of the company write me a reference, but this is just ridiculous. As I would be able to dictate whatever I wanted in this reference.
I am aware it is a silly problem, but in case of chance of getting a job it seems to be an important issue.