Adam
You cannot compare the attitude to GA in the USA compared to Europe! in the USA success was always admired and a display of that success was seen by others as a goal for themselves.
Europe? Sorry but we hate success and cannot wait for those who are successful to fall.
I can remember years back on a scheduled flight from Italy being told that I could not take photos over Italy.
Spy in the sky?
But really Europe is all about state control! Aircraft for the masses and GA doesnt fit well in that political aim.
Rich kids in expensive aeroplanes with freedom to fly over god knows what?
Much better to keep aviation to people carriers controlled by the state.
Regulate and dictate I am afraid is the name of the game.
Pace