My expert advisor tells me that we don't need to know the absolute figure (number of commercially active helicopter pilots in the world) for there is a 'rule of thumb' accepted as 'scientific methodology'. If the target population is greater than 10,000 then you only need to fly with 370 of them to provide sufficient data on the whole population with an accuracy of +or - 5%.
As my intention is to attempt to quantify the skill and knowledge levels of the (helicopter pilot ) population at large this sample will be quite adequate.
From the analysis I believe we can say that the global pilot licensing systems are to a great extent weak and ineffective with isolated pockets of excellence and contrary pockets of "how the hell did that person ever get a license?"
That's all for now.... off to buy a new set of body armour.......
G.