UK CAA LAE is termed as Licensed Aircraft Engineer who is recognised by UK Government as an engineer (with professional qualifications) having the authority to countersign a new passport application. An engineering degree holder ( mechanical or civil ) has no such privilege.
UK LAE on BCAR day are real engineer who have to go thru 2 hrs ORAL EXAM with 1 to 2 surveyors with knowledge to sketch FCU and to explain its operation etc.
The early JAR day were slightly easier with one surveyor for oral.Then the later JAR deal away with oral exam.
Nowaday, EASA AMEL (Aircraft maintenance Engineer Licence) holder is watered down to almost equivalent to FAA with the freely issued FULL B1, B2 and C from others, mainly Easter EU.
May be we are now a mechanic, same as in the States.
Last edited by Kuchan; 8th Nov 2011 at 22:10.