the operator claimed they couldn't workout a solution
If CASA keeps on saying "not compliant" without elaborating, to whom do you turn to to get it resolved.
It appears once individuals in CASA have determined a course of action, nothing will convince them otherwise, even if their peers have accepted it before.
There are more that one way of skinning a cat, but in aviation, it can only be CASA's way or you are out the door or before the AAT.
We really need a separation of issuance, compliance and policing.
If this is not attainable, an independent standards section within CASA staffed by a mix from industry and CASA that is directly accessible by industry and CASA without prejudice. Decisions made by the section to be published so industry and CASA staff have precedents on which decisions and interpretations can be made with some certainty.
Or is this a bridge to far?