Seems to me that the potential big fines are there mainly to scare the punters into coping it sweet.
I have told this story before. A number of years ago I flew the V-tail a couple of times over one or two days after a mandatory rudder pedal inspection was due. As soon as I realised my mistake the inspection was done - all good, nothing found. As I understand it, Oz is the only country that requires this annual inspection on Bo's.
Months later my error was picked up by CASA in a random MR check during an audit of my maintenance org. I was threatened with potential $40k in fines and up to 8 years gaol for multiple breaches of the CARs/CAOs etc - but all would be forgiven if I paid a $500 admin. fine.
I whimped out and paid the fine - and have regretted doing so ever since.
If nobody stands up to a bully - the bullying just continues.
Dr
