For once Crab, you should be grateful that the CAA will dictate the rules and regs - so inexperienced crews/low hours/"inferior" equipment....won't detrimentally affect the finished product. It WILL be fit for purpose (or no SARAOC).
They are the 'enemy' in the commercial world (tongue in cheek) in terms of smooth operational flow, but deep down inside - everyone wouldn't want it any other way. They have kept the Industry SAFE for the public. The UK has an exemplary record on safety and it's down to the "Authority" really - keeping commercial upstarts in line. Job well done methinks.
The Mil however (in particular the SARF) are only now (last year or so) coming to terms with 'MAA' (the mil equivalent of the CAA on paper (unfortunately not in practice)). And as you know this necessary evil will bring clarity, transparency and enhancements to safety, maintenance and ops, the likes of which you have never known. Welcome to civvy street old boy!
The future of SAR really is in good hands. Enjoy it when you bring your enthusiasm and loyalty across
