Not to say it's not there, but I couldn't find a "Charter" or detail of how the legal 's are managed and arranged, which would have been of some interest. Cribbed from the AWAL web site; spelling errors and all...
Subsequently, with the advent of Limited Category, AWAL became the industry body to undertake self-administration of the category on behalf of CASA. (If AWAL had not done so, Limited Category would no longer exist). The result is that we Australians have more freedom to fly a greater variety of ex-military aircraft than practically anywhere else in the world.
Structure: AWAL is managed by a board of volunteer directors. The CEO and Director of Self
Administation report to the Board.
Services provided by Australian Warbirds Association Ltd:
- Administers Limited Category aircraft on behalf of CASA.
- Provides systems of maintenance for various warbird types.
- Bi-monthly newsletters to keep members informed.
- Conducts seminars and training days for engineers, owners, and pilots of limited category aircraft
- Assists Warbird enthusiasts to get close to real Warbirds and their operators.
Paid Adventure Flights.
A big advantage of our Limited Category, and one available in very few parts of the world, is that you have the opportunity to earn money with your Warbird. Unlike standard category commercial operations, you don’t even need an AOC! However, to do so you must comply with the following. Firstly, you must submit an exposition to AWAL on how you intend to meet the operational requirements. (Under Manuals, you’ll find details and assistance on doing this). etc.
Thirdly, the pilot must be a CPL or higher, and be appropriately endorsed and experienced.
Someone has done a good job there and put in some hard work. The guidelines and advice (see the Manuals section) for potential war-bird owner/operators is clear, concise and within the grand scheme of things as idiot proof as possible. AWAL are to be congratulated. It's refreshing, a pity CASA don't get the same team to write a few of the regulations and guidelines for the wider community.
Reading through the data available it appears, at first glance that Hempel (man and operation) showed the same blatant disregard for the AWAL as they did to the CASA. Perhaps it explains some of the 'why' there was a sense of invulnerability. This is a further shame on Hempel; it's easy to forget there was an operation behind the man, equally responsible to CASA and AWAL. An organisation like AWAL is a good thing and it would be a loss to all to see the sensible, compliant operators penalised because of the actions of one individual and the company supporting his antics.
You could even say CASA have done well, showing common sense, patience and forbearance in their dealings with AWAL going forward from Hempel. The balancing act for both CASA and AWAL to maintain "independence" and a working relationship must be difficult enough, without the likes of Hempel undermining it. I wish them well for the future.....
