To suggest that the regulatory authorities should be pinning down the definition of "flight time" in this context to such an extent is simply farcical.
Dave, I disagree totally.
We all have our own ideas when it comes to what's sensible, but Regulatory Authorities must make the rules clear and unambiguous. THAT'S THEIR JOB.
And if they tried they'd likely screw it up, anyway.
They already have!
MJ
Ps. Airline passenger time wouldn't count in this case, as 'flight time in the relevant class' is specified.