Hmm, I'd like to see the actual figures on this "exponential" increase in recreational pilots. Yes they did increase up to about 2010/2011, however since then the numbers have been on the decline going by membership renewals, partially thanks to the overall economic situation, but also I'd suggest thanks to CASA's heavy-handed dealing with the recreational authorities, particularly RA-Aus. A couple of people of my acquaintance said fuggit, all too hard and went fishing instead. The other factor which seems to be ignored is that a proportion of those recreational pilots also hold various CASA licences. Lies, damned lies and statistics the man said....