KW "[is] GA CASA's "sine qua non" or vice versa?
As in non essential; the vice is found hidden deep within. The versa may be objectively discussed: proposition, does self administration work?. In theory, it's a ripper idea, but in reality, it's a ticklish problem; and, one would normally feel a degree of sympathy for the regulator, who, at the end of the shift, is responsible to government for oversight. Independent 'management' of aviation activities while providing a further layer of governmental protection can conversely bite them on the bum just as quickly. Human nature being what it is.
The AAAA and GFA, for example, have done a splendid job and made it work; some of the others have not impressed. So what to do? The problems are as easy to identify as the solutions, AAAA have had the benefit of solid, practical, honest management, supported by the 'members'. Where this is not a feature, the picture get 'raggedy' around the edges which, understandably, makes the regulator 'nervous'. When the regulator is in disarray, poorly led, the lower management levels are governed by some of questionable integrity; and their troops on the ground are less than satisfactory, the seeds for a complete cluster fech are sown. Add a touch of paranoia, a dash of ignorance, a splash of vengeance, a dab of corruption to the mixture, and blind Freddy can see it's going to end in tears...
It comes down to trust, honour, integrity, cooperation and that rarest of animals, common or garden horse sense. Clear policy from the board (if we must have one) positive leadership from the DAS and faith in the integrity and knowledge of those 'on the ground' would greatly assist to make self administration an economic and operational successes. But, as it stands right now, the vice is endemic, the versa pissed off and between Rafferty and Murphy – we find today's mares nest.
So, to answer your erudite question (an essential condition; a thing that is absolutely necessary) I've got no fecking idea mate, none. But something has to give, we cannot continue the way we are and expect to have a vibrant industry... The forces are too oppugnait.
Toot toot -