I have just received this from our wondeful Minister who seems to be under an illusion that all is well in EASA land!
Your comments for a suitable response would be appreciated if you think it of any use.
many thanks
Department for
Transport
From the Minister of State The Rt. Hon. Theresa Villiers MP
House of Commons London
SW1A OM
Great Minster House 33 Horseferry Road London SW1 P 4DR
Tel: 02079443082 Fax: 020 79444492
E-Mail: [email protected]
Web site: Department for Transport - Department for Transport
Our Ref: MC/24578 Your ref: 4054
2 3 DEC 2011
Thank you for your letter of 24 November, on behalf of your constituent, Mr ***** about the Instrument Meteorological Conditions (IMC) rating for private pilots.
As you may be aware, the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) now has responsibility for developing pilot licensing standards for the EU. Over the last two years it has developed and consulted on implementing rules based on existing European requirements and the international standard adopted by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO). These implementing rules have now been adopted under a Commission Regulation and will come into force in April 2012.
The IMC rating is unique to the UK. EASA's rule making group, which included pilot representatives from across Europe, decided not to include a similar rating in the implementing rules. However, there is scope for existing holders of IMC rating to be given a restricted instrument rating which will give the same privileges as the IMC rating. The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) is currently reviewing the process for issuing a restricted instrument rating to the holder of an IMC rating but it does not believe that this will involve any additional training or examinations.
The consultation on the implementing rules highlighted the need to simplify the requirement for instrument ratings for private pilots. In consultation with general aviation organisations and the national aviation authorities, EASA has drafted new requirements for a competency based instrument rating and an en route instrument rating.
Consultation on the draft requirements will close on 23 December. These requirements are supported by the CAA and have been welcomed by general aviation organisations in the UK. I would hope that Mr *****( has responded to EASA's consultation to ensure that the Agency is aware of his views.
I hope this is helpful.
Regards
THE RT. HON. THERESA VILLIERS